Sally Christine O’Quinn Atkins, born on July 23, 1929, in Coward, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on December 2, 2025, in Virginia Beach, Virginia, at the age of 96. She embraced a life filled with resilience, love, and cherished memories.
Sally began her career as a Southern Bell Telephone Operator from 1948 to 1950, where she connected people and stories across the lines.
In 1950, she answered a different call, joining the U.S. Army/Reserves as a WAC, where she served with honor and dedication until 1961, achieving the rank of SP5. Her commitment to service continued as a government civil servant in the role of a contract compliance specialist, where she ensured integrity and fairness in every contract she handled until retirement in 1995 at AATD, Fort Eustis, VA.
Sally was a woman of varied interests and passions. She was an avid tennis spectator and a devoted fan of figure skating and old-time television shows. Her love for reading her Bible provided her with comfort and wisdom throughout her life. With a mind as sharp as ever, she enjoyed the challenges of Sudoku and crossword puzzles, delighting in every solved clue. Her family was her heart’s treasure, and she cherished visits and calls, eager to hear about their adventures. She especially cherished visits from Brian and Debbie as they visited parks and beaches; letting her feel the water on her feet as she enjoyed these moments with family.
Sally had a taste for life’s simple pleasures—she was a big fan of Krispy Kreme Doughnuts and relished oysters and shrimp from her favorite seafood restaurant. Breakfasts at Waffle House and Cracker Barrel were among her favorites, and she never said no to a BANANA SPLIT from Dairy Queen or indulging in Lindor Chocolates.
In July 1959, Sally married the love of her life, Warren L. Atkins. They shared a beautiful partnership until his passing, and together they built a family that would be her pride and joy. She lived her last 16 years with her daughter Sherri in Chesapeake, VA, where she found comfort and happiness.
Preceded in death by her beloved parents, Susanna W. O’Quinn and Ashley O’Quinn, her siblings Anna Elizabeth Player, Iris Ellawese Walch, and Ashley Warren O”Quinn, and her dear husband Warren L. Atkins, Sally’s legacy lives on through her surviving family: her son Robert Atkins (Jane) of Wesley Chapel, FL; her daughter Sherri Lucian of Chesapeake, VA; her son James Atkins of Newport News, VA; her grandchildren Tiffany Lucian, Benjamin Atkins (Lubia), Troy Atkins, William Atkins, and Zachary Atkins; as well as her special nephew, Brian Walch (Debbie), along with numerous nieces. All will fondly remember her and deeply miss her presence.
An inspiration to all who knew her, Sally never gave up, embodying strength and perseverance through health and life challenges. Independent and proud, she took great care of herself and believed that staying active was the key to her longevity. Her steady guidance and reassurance have left an indelible mark on her family, who will carry forward her legacy of love and resilience.
The memorial service will be held 1:00 PM Wednesday December 10, 2025 at Altmeyer Funeral Home Chesapeake Chapel.
In Lieu of flowers, contributions to St. Jude’s, Union Mission, or your local Food Bank.
