Lillie Bell Atkins

Lillie Bell Atkins (Hines) was born on March 10, 1946 in Hope, Arkansas, the daughter of Ruthena Jackson (Atkins) and Virgle Atkins, both deceased. She moved to Cleveland, Ohio in 1952.

She graduated from John Hay High School in 1964. She had many occupation in her life. Her first job was an employee at Hough Bakery. She later received certifications as a Licensed Practical Nurse and a welder. Her lifelong dream was to become a beautician. She attended Erma Lee Beauty School and in 1972 she attended Allstate Barber College where she became the first African American barber to graduate from the school in 1976.

She gave her life to christ in 1981. She became concerned that the needs of the elderly in the St. Clair community were not being met. In 1983, she opened a group home for seniors. She loved and cherished the elderly.

In her spare time, she loved bowling. She was an avid bowler who was a member of a bowling team which brought her joy.

Traveling was her first passion. She traveled many miles to visit her sister, nieces and nephews.

She leaves to mourn her passing: two children. Donnell Hines and Angela Hines (Tramel Tucker), six grandchildren, Jaron Hines, Darius Mitchell, John Atkins, Rayshawn Hines, Brashawn Hines and Demetria McCoy, four great grandchildren, Zamya Mitchell, Jaida Hines, Jamari Hines (King) and Naszaire Atkins.

Also left to mourn her passing is: her beloved sister Marie Kelly (Clarence) her can't do no wrong, don't mess with my brother, Johnny Atkins and William Atkins (Billy). She was preceded in death by siblings:

Retha Watkins. Joseph Atkins and Larry Atkins. Nieces and Nephews: Victor Smith, Patricia Parker, Mona Smiley, Brenda Simpson, Deildra Peoples (Penny), Clarence Kelly, Jr., (Spank), Regina Larkin (deceased), Rickey Smith (deceased), and Craig Kelly (deceased). No words can describe the love she had for all of you. She talked about your accomplishments and the many memories she shared with you until her last days.

THOUGHTS FROM YOUR DAUGHTER AND SON

We were not a perfect family. There were many challenges in your life. You were dealt a bad deck of cards but you always pulled out aces. You did the best you could in spite of what life dealt you. Rest in peace because one thing for sure is that we have your traits: get up, try to be successful, never give up and be ready for the fight.

Love Always,

Angela and Donnell

EXPRESSIONS FROM YOUR SISTER

I love you and I will truly miss you and I can't wait to see you again. Tell Retha, joseph and Larry I look forward to seeing them.

Love Always,

Marie

II Corithians 5:8 - To be absent from the body is to present with the lord.

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