Judith "Judy" Atkinson Smith

Judith “Judy” Atkinson Smith of Vienna, VA passed away peacefully on August 1, 2024.

Born on September 22, 1938 in Suffolk, VA, Judy was the eldest daughter of Willie V. and Evelyn D. Atkinson. She was raised in Williamsburg, VA and met the love of her life, John in Richmond, VA while attending Westhampton College (University of Richmond) in 1957. Married on June 13, 1959, together they had three daughters and one son. She had made Vienna her home since 1962. A devoted mother and homemaker Judy enjoyed knitting, crocheting, and sewing. She developed a great love of quilting, blessing many with the beautiful pieces she created. As a grandmother she knitted each of her grandchildren a coming home sweater, hat and blanket, items that will be treasured forever.

Judy was an active member of Vienna Presbyterian Church since 1971, where she was a deacon, worked with new members, was involved in women circles, bible studies, and small groups, the VPC quilters, volunteered in the church’s Grapevine bookstore, and worked as an assistant in the church’s preschool. Her faith was strong and the center of her life, Faith, Family, Friends was a motto she lived by.

Judy is survived by her daughters, Colleen S. Gard-Craig (Phil) of Virginia Beach, Melissa A. Miller (Terry) of Herndon, son Brendan P. Smith (Julie) of Lake in the Hills, IL., and sister Carol A. Ralston (Tom) of Mercersburg, PA. She is also survived by twelve grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She was proceeded in death by her parents, her husband John M. Smith, daughter Stephanie S. Roland, son-in-law Fred Gard, and great-granddaughter Remi S. Harris.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Judy Nkansah who has been Judy’s faithful caregiver and friend for the last three years.

A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, August 17, 2024 at 11:00 am at Vienna Presbyterian Church 124 Park Street NE, Vienna, VA. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers the family ask that donations be made in her memory to Vienna Presbyterian Church designated for the VPC Preschool. Donations can be mailed to Vienna Presbyterian Church, 124 Park Street NE, Vienna VA, 22180.