How I remember papaw is he was always loving trying to be involved even when he couldn’t remember who I was he was stubborn but super determined.

Growing up next door, our childhoods were intertwined with Mamaw and Papaw. Some of my earliest memories are Mamaw cooking either a big family dinner or one of her famous pies, maybe even using the blackberries that Papaw and I had picked together, and playing the piano or organ as she often did. For Papaw, it was listening to his tall tales which seemed to always get taller each time he told them, him flashing his flashlight at you from across the yard, or our trips around town to take the trash to the dump or get a haircut at Johnny’s. Mamaw was a godly woman who loved her family, to play music, and to cook… and boy could she. As anyone who knew him can attest, what better way to describe Papaw then to say, “he sure was a character”. I am thankful for the many years we had with them. We just lost a great part of our family, for a time, but heaven gained 2 bright souls that I am sure are rejoicing at re-uniting with my Mother and watching over us together. We love you and will miss you, but will see you again.

Goodbye, For A Time



The train whistle blows and it’s time to let go.

The Lord called them home,
 we thought one, he said two.

So bitter, so sweet, both sadness and joy,
Impossibly intertwined tears we shed over our loss that is heavens gain.

He asks for too much, too soon, 
but we give them back with open hands.

They were only with us for a time, 
never ours to keep.

Lynn was opinionated and stubborn as a mule. But beneath the crusty and feisty veneer was a very soft heart, highly imperfect, yet pointing us to the one who is perfect.

Lynn really was an amazing man. You could learn all there was to know about his ways in a month, but even after almost 100 years, he could still surprise you.

Judy was a humble and godly woman,
 A lady of uncommon beauty, poise, and grace,
A rose of Sharon, our lily of the valley.

Her children rise up and call her blessed, her husband also, and he praises her:
“Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.”

O what a joy it must be to reunite with each other, 
       with Jennifer, 
                        with Jesus!

                        Goodbye for now, 
                                but not forever.

I’ve always known our family was special because of how close we are but as Ive grown older, I realize our family is more than that. It’s my foundation, my rock in every storm. Mamaw and Papaw were the pillars of that foundation. 

Papaw taught me resilience, strength, the power of being confident in who you are, and above all else how to be a sassy redhead. Anyone will tell you how quick and easy it was for him to make friends - and I do mean everyone. He somehow knew the entirety of South Knoxville - It was easy because he knew how to meet people where they are and help raise them up. Papaw was suspenders and a warm smile, he was old spice aftershave, he was a Vol for life, he was a man of God, he was laughter, he was a collector of ball caps, he was a carpenter who put his heart into everything he made, he was feisty, he was Papaw. 

Mamaw was elegance and grace personified. She loves fashion and always had a complete outfit - matching purse, jewelry, shoes, clothes - everything a perfect match. She was humble but strong. Mamaw taught me how to let music move me and how to express myself through it. I owe my love of all art to her. Her steadfastness guided me through some of the most difficult years of my life after losing Mom. She helped me find my footing again through the grief and taught me faithfulness through it all. Losing her is like losing another piece of Mom because they were one and the same. Not only mother and daughter but the very best of friends. I find peace in knowing the three of them are reunited and happy together once again. Rest easy Mamaw and Papaw, give Mom a hug for me.  
All my love, Kelly Lynn

Uncle Lynn was a protector, father figure and companion. He and Aunt Judy were consistently  giving back and also enjoyed music especially piano. 

My childhood summers were soent in Knoxville and Florida. Mamaws, Uncle Lynn's and Uncle Bills houses were always filled with love and fun activities. I will never forget the times when Uncle Lynn and Aunt Judy would pick me up at the Carson Newman campus to take me to a concert or performance downtown. We saw Dino Katsonakis perform, a truly amazing pianist!  

Few people take time to lovingly invest in the lives of others and celebrate life. Thank you for everything Uncle Lynn and Aunt Judy! 🙏❤️

Uncle Lynn was a good man who helped me when I desperately needed it. He trusted me, and thankfully, by the grace of God, he was not disappointed. He stepped in at a pivotal time in my early married life and family life and invested in me. I am very grateful for that. My condolences to the family at this time of loss, and a reminder that because he believed in Jesus, he is preceding the rest of us in receiving the promise of heaven.  My prayers are with the family.

OBITUARY

Richard Lynn Atchley

June 3, 1937 – August 28, 2026

Berry Funeral Home

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