Jane P. Atkins (Baby Jane) was born October 19, 1938 to the late Benjamin Patterson Sr. & Esther May Patterson in Norfolk, Va. Jane entered into eternal life on Thursday August 1, 2024 at home surrounded by her loving Husband Sherman her two son’s Ricky, Steven, her beloved Daughter In-law Sherry Atkins and her sister Ernestine Slade. She is preceded by her son Jeffery P. Atkins, and her siblings Lilia May Patterson (Sister), Earl Patterson (Brother), Doris Spencer (Sister), and Helen Bryant (Sister). She leaves to cherish, Sherman P. Atkins Sr. (Husband) Sherman P. Atkins Jr (Son), Steven W. Atkins (Son) Sherry N. Atkins (Daughter In-law), Valerie Exum, Kaidian Stephen Atkins wife of Geoffrey Atkins (Grandson, Jakai Atkins Geoffrey’s Son, Edna Jones. Siblings: Benjamin Patterson Jr. (Brother), Ernestine Slade and Barbara Holloman (Sisters). And a long list of nieces, nephews, relatives and dear friends.
Jane lived each day to the fullest and spread joy wherever she went. Jane may have left us but her spirit will live on in the countless hearts she touched. From her infectious laughter to her warm spirit. Jane’s legacy of love and positivity will continue to inspire all of us who were lucky enough to know her. Baby Jane will always hold a special place in our hearts.
Jane grew up in Norfolk, Va. and was an Alumni of Booker T Washington High School, and she actively participated with her class of 1957. She and the family lived in Baltimore, MD then to New York and back to Norfolk. Jane loved the city, especially New York. Jane had several different jobs throughout her life. From working at Technicolor in NYC, to helping build TVs at the Emerson Plant in Suffolk. She also spent many years working for the Norfolk Journal and Guide, and the Norfolk Public School System where she retired. Jane was a member of New Calvary Baptist Church in Norfolk. She went on to become a member of Calvary Revival Church in Norfolk. She was a member of the International Bible Study Fellowship and the Calvary Revival Church Senior Saints in Prayer. Jane also served with CRC’s Bereavement Ministry from 2005-2020. Jane served as a CRC Greeter, always sharing a cheerful smile and welcoming hug as members and guest entered in for worship services.
Throughout her life she always volunteered and worked hard in various ministries. Jane and Sherman served as Host Home for Calvary Revival Church Connect Group for several years. Jane had a ritual every day when she woke up, she would spend a few hours reading her Bible and taking notes, then it was cooking dinner for the two she most loved in her life Ricky and Sherman. Often talking to Steven about today’s politics and everyday life. She was very opinionated and not afraid to speak her mind, 100% of the time it was to make you a better person, if you listened. Jane also enjoyed cooking and hosting delicious dinners on various occasions each and every year. Everyone loved her famous made from scratch Dinner Rolls. Jane was an avid walker for years, often walking with her group of friends at Greenbrier Mall or with family around the neighborhood.
A visitation for Jane will be held Friday, August 16, 2024 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Woodlawn Funeral Home, 6329 Virginia Beach Blvd, Norfolk, Va. 23502, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 am. Interment will immediately follow in Woodlawn Memorial Gardens. Please post your fondest condolences to the family during this difficult time on the funeral home website.
