BESSIE BRANHAM ATKINS

Bessie Branham Atkins, 88, widow of John Talmadge Atkins, died on Sunday, Jan. 29, 2023, at a local nursing facility.

Born in Bishopville, she was a daughter of the late Mack and Claudia Branham Branham. Mrs. Atkins was a member of Crosswell Baptist Church.

Surviving are two sons, Johnny Atkins (Mary) and Thomas Atkins, both of Sumter; two daughters, Brenda Witherspoon (Steve) and Beverly Ardis (Rod), both of Sumter; 14 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

She was predeceased by a daughter, Carolyn Lawrence, and three brothers.

Graveside services will be held at 3 p.m. today at Sumter Cemetery with the Rev. Charles Owens officiating.

The family will receive friends following the graveside service.

Memorials may be made to Crosswell Baptist Church, 604 Mathis St., Sumter, SC 29150.

Online condolences may be sent to www.sumterfunerals.com.

Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral and Crematory, 221 Broad St., Sumter, is in charge of the arrangements.