Catherine Allen Atkins, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, peacefully passed away on November 9, 2024, at the age of 79. She was born on July 13, 1945, in Dallas, Texas, to David Harold Allen and Jacquelin Bullard Allen. Cathy was a twin and enjoyed spending time with her sister, Carol, riding bikes in Wichita Falls. From an early age, her bright mind and compassionate spirit left a lasting impression on everyone she met.
Cathy grew up in Wichita Falls, Texas, and went on to attend the University of Oklahoma, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics and a Secondary Teaching Certificate in 1967. A dedicated student with a passion for learning, she was proud of her academic achievements and the lifelong friendships she made during her college years.
On January 22, 1966, Cathy married the love of her life, Samuel J. Atkins III. Their love story spanned 58 years, filled with laughter, devotion, and a shared commitment to family, faith, and community. Together, they created a beautiful life, raising children and supporting each other through every season.
In 1970, Cathy and Sam moved to Dallas, where she became an active member of Lovers Lane United Methodist Church. She served on various committees throughout her years there, embodying the spirit of service and devotion. Cathy was particularly proud of her role as Chairwoman of the Board of Directors at Promise House, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting at-risk youth, which she led with compassion and determination in 1989.
In addition to her work at Promise House, Cathy spent over a decade teaching pre-school and Mother’s Day Out programs. She later served as the Director of Ridgewood Park Methodist Church Preschool for 15 years, where she touched the lives of countless children and their families with her warmth, patience, and love for learning.
In 1991, Cathy and Sam bought a place in Van Alstyne, Texas and began spending weekends in Van Alstyne, eventually making it their home in 1997. She became an active member of First United Methodist Church in Van Alstyne and developed a deep love for the community. Cathy also embraced a new passion for trail riding, an activity she thoroughly enjoyed with friends and family.
Cathy’s life was one of service, love, and faith. She was known for her unwavering kindness, her ability to see the good in others, and her dedication to improving the lives of those around her. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her legacy will live on through the many lives she touched.
She is survived by her husband Sam Atkins; daughter, Michele Atkins Brockette and husband, Pat; daughter, Paige Atkins Wenaas and husband, Christopher; granddaughter, Allison Brockette; granddaughter, Jenna Wenaas; grandson, Ryan Brockette; grandson, Carson Brockette; grandson Sam Wenaas; her twin, Caroline Allen Hughes and husband, Wayne, and a host of other loving family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First United Methodist Church, Van Alstyne, Texas - WEE School or the charity of your choice.