Beatrice Atkins

Mrs. Beatrice Little Atkins, a remarkable woman who lived to the impressive age of 104, peacefully departed from this earthly life to embrace her heavenly rewards on Wednesday, May 14, 2025. Born on January 23, 1921, she was the cherished youngest child of eight siblings of Martin Little, Sr., and Wincie Little. Mrs. Atkins was a beloved member of a large family, each contributing to the rich tapestry of her early life.  

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Henry James Atkins, siblings, Grady, Martin, Jr., Crockett, Annie, Nannie, Daisy, Blanche (Aunt Penn), Emma and Odessa, Nephews, William, Fletcher, and Rankin Cheek, nieces, Blanche Cheek; great nieces, great nephews, cousins, other church family members, and friends.

In 1950, she married Henry James Atkins, welcoming a new extended family into her life. This union not only marked the beginning of their journey together but also brought her into the warmth of a close-knit family in South Carolina.

She attended Montgomery County Schools. After retiring from Carolina Springs Inc., she worked for a few years at Burger King and Slane Hosiery Mills. Eventually, she landed her desired job as a cafeteria worker in Guilford County Schools, serving meals at Southwest Middle School for eleven years.

In 2011, at the age of 90, she received the Employee of the Month Award, which was featured by the Greensboro News in recognition of her accomplishments with Guilford County Schools. They showcased a photo of her with students on a billboard in the Triad area, highlighting that her tireless efforts and cheerful demeanor made her a favorite among both students and staff. She rarely missed a day of work, never complained, and was always willing to help wherever needed.  She also worked for a few years at Ferndale Middle School before truly retiring at the age of 96.  

She was a loyal and dedicated member of the Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. As the oldest founding member, she was the last remaining among them. Throughout her time at the church, she served in various roles, including Sunday school teacher, youth usher, junior choir advisor, senior choir member, Senior Missionary Treasurer, and kitchen committee member. Later on, she received the honorary title of “church mother” in recognition of her contributions.

She was the oldest member of the Guilford Education and Missionary Baptist Association (GEMBA) while she served in the Missionary Auxiliary. In honor of her 100th birthday, she received an Official Proclamation. She looked forward to the fifth Sunday meeting, as it was a time to join her Missionary family. She took the term "Missionary" seriously and worked diligently every day to embody the spirit of a true missionary. Additionally, in January 2022, she received a Proclamation from the City of High Point, which was presented by City Councilman Rev. Tyrone Johnson.

She actively supported the mission by reaching out to individuals in need, making heartfelt visits to the sick and elderly, spending quality time with them, and bringing warmth and cheer to their days. In addition, she took the initiative to call them regularly, offering a listening ear and words of encouragement.

For many years before Kay's birth, she helped nurture many children not only within her own family but also in the wider community and at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. Among those she touched were Ernestine McCullough and Mary “Cookie” Chavis, who benefited from her care and guidance.

She should not be judged by her small stature. She was someone who said what she meant and meant what she said. She expressed her thoughts clearly and directly; Her words were not just empty phrases; they were grounded in sincerity and conviction. If she ever felt that her guidance had come across as too severe, she was quick to acknowledge it and offer an apology. Yet, it was evident that all her teachings stemmed from a place of deep love and a firm belief in the word of God

She was filled with the wisdom of God, and her favorite scriptures were Psalm 91 and Psalm 121. The scripture she quoted to everyone as a guiding principle was her favorite, along with her cherished song, “O Lord, I Thank You.” A true pioneer in her family, she led three generations: her daughter, granddaughter, and great-granddaughters. She extended her love to her neighbors, extended family, church family, GEMBA family, community family, and previous work family, all of whom she considered her own. Many people knew her as “Mama Bea,” “Grandma Bea,” or “Mrs. Bea,” all names she held dear.

During her leisure time, especially on warm days, she could often be seen working outside. Whether pushing her lawnmower or using her weed eater, she dedicated herself to beautifying her yard and flowers. She enjoyed talking to neighbors as they passed by or stopped to say hello, a friendly gesture made even more welcoming by her age.  Not only did she take pride in her garden, but she also ensured that the exterior of her house radiated charm and care, presenting a delightful sight for anyone who walked by.

She was famous for her homemade hot and steamy biscuits and delicious cabbage. She enjoyed spending quality time with family, extended family, and friends. In her cozy living room, she could be found watching her favorite television shows, including Westerns, game shows, dramas, and mystery programs. 

Her wonderful and precious memories will be remembered forever by her daughter, Kay Atkins of the home; one granddaughter, Shawn Atkins of High Point, NC; two great-granddaughters, Cierra Atkins and Daria C’na Whitaker both of High Point, NC;  her two adopted daughters, whom she raised as her own, Tacarra Primus of High Point, NC and Jill Ricks Richmond (Dre) of Fuquay-Varina, NC; one niece, Odessa Patrick of Greensboro, NC; three nephews that she cherished greatly, Rev. James R. Ricks, Sr. (Phyllis) of Trinity, NC and Dworn Ricks of  Winston-Salem, NC; special nephew, Donald Golden; bonus grandchildren, Javid Stokes and Cedric Weathers along with several great-nieces, great-nephews. Her extended family includes relatives from Virginia, Hickory, North Carolina, and South Carolina, along with bonus grandchildren, Timothy, Marie, and Monica. She also leaves behind her FMBC and GEMBA family, as well as many cousins and many others whom she considered family.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held for Mrs. Beatrice "Ma Bea" Atkins on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, located at 715 W. Willis Avenue, High Point, NC. The service will begin at noon, and the family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. 

There will also be a public viewing at the church on Saturday, May 24, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., and at Johnson and Sons, 206 Fourth St, High Point, NC on Friday, May 23, from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Burial will follow the funeral service at Carolina Biblical Gardens.

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