Cherylanne Atkins

Cherylanne "Cheryl" Atkins, age 77, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by the family she loved so dearly.

Cheryl was born on January 6, 1949, in Gainesville, Texas, to Hugh and Billie Sparks. She graduated from Sam Houston High School in Arlington, Texas, Class of 1967. She later made her home in Grapeland, Texas, where she lived for more than 49 years, building a lifetime of memories with her family and becoming deeply rooted in the community she called home.

Cheryl was also a hardworking and dedicated member of the workforce throughout her life. She spent several years working at Troy Jones Construction, the Grapeland Co-op, Grapeland Cable TV, and later for Dr. Knight Dentistry. In each role, she was known for her strong work ethic, dependability, and kindness toward those she worked alongside.

Outside of her work and family life, Cheryl found great joy in the simple things she loved most. She had a deep love for animals, a passion for the outdoors, and a spirit of adventure that took her traveling whenever she had the chance. Whether she was enjoying time outside, caring for her pets, or exploring new places, she embraced life with curiosity and appreciation for the world around her.

Above all else, Cheryl's greatest legacy was her family. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. Her family grew through the generations, and she was blessed to see it flourish with 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. The love she gave to her family and the memories they created together will continue to live on through each of them.

Cheryl is survived by her beloved husband, Kenneth Atkins; her son, Casey Atkins; her daughter, Nikki Ellis Williams; her stepson, Todd Atkins; her brother, Buddy Sparks; her 10 grandchildren; and her 10 great-grandchildren, along with extended family and friends who loved her dearly.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Hugh and Billie Sparks, and her brother, Jaime Sparks.

After more than 49 years in Grapeland, Cheryl leaves behind more than a home—she leaves a lifetime of relationships, memories, traditions, and love. Her presence will be deeply missed, but the love she gave so freely will remain with her family for generations to come.

Cheryl's final moments reflected what mattered most throughout her life: family. She left this world at home surrounded by those she loved, and she will forever remain in the hearts of those who were blessed to love her.

A life well lived, a family deeply loved, and a legacy that will never be forgotten.

She was laid to rest at Davis Cemetery in Grapeland, Texas on Tuesday, August 18, 2026.

In lieu of customary remembrances, memorials in memory of Cherylanne Atkins can be directed towards Hospice Place parent company, The Gentiva Foundation, 3550 Riverwood Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia 30339.

Services for Cherylanne Atkins are in the care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas. Please visit her online memorial tribute at www.rhonefuneralhome.com, where words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with her family.