Obituary: Rae “Kempy” Barnes Atkinson, 90, of Branford

Information via W S Clancy Branford Funeral Home

Rae “Kempy” Barnes Atkinson, 90, a lifelong resident of Stony Creek, CT, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on May 5, 2018.Rae was born in Guilford, CT on February 17, 1928.

Rae shared this birth date with her daughter, Dale Atkinson for 58 years and her grandson, Shane Lange for 28 years. Rae graduated from Branford High School and continued on to receive a Physical Education degree from Sargent College. Rae was married to Donald James Atkinson ,Jr. who passed away far too young in 1982.

Rae worked as a Phys Ed teacher for Westport YMCA, camp counselor, school lunch aide, cashier at Paine’s General Store and Union 76. She enjoyed her mornings with “the girls”, her silver sneakers group, watching her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events, was an avid reader, great wife and wonderful mom.

Rae was an active member of the Church of Christ in her beloved Stony CreekRae is survived by her children; Philip, Donna, Dale Atkinson, Richard (Patricia) Atkinson, David (Diane) Atkinson, 12 grandchildren,7 great grandchildren and other family and friends.Rae is preceded in death by John R. Barnes her only brother.The memorial service will be held at 1:00pm on May 25, 2018 at Church of Christ, Congregational; 192 Thimble Island Road; Stony Creek, CT. Burial will be private at Stony Creek Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by the W.S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home of Branford.In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be given to Church of Christ-Restoration Fund; P.O. Box 3385; Stony Creek, CT 06405. The family of Rae Atkinson wishes to thank “No Place Like Home” for their care givers services and the support of Branford Hospice.To send flowers or a remembrance gift to the family of Rae Atkinson, please visit our Tribute Store.