Virginia "Dolly" (Atkins) Powell

Virginia "Dolly" Atkins Powell, a beacon of faith and the epitome of family devotion, passed away peacefully on May 2nd, 2025, at the age of 83, in her lifelong hometown of Phenix City, Alabama. Born on December 30, 1941, in Phenix City to the late Edward and Eleanor (Mills) Butts, Dolly's early years set the stage for a life filled with love, service, and unwavering faith.

Dolly was a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She leaves behind a legacy of love through her son, Jody Atkins (Brandy), and her adored grandchildren: Victoria, Brook, Brandi, Bailey, John, Andrew, Dustin and Ashley. Her memory will also be treasured by her 15 great-grandchildren, one of whom Connor held a special place in her heart, she touched the lives of her great-grandchildren with gentle wisdom and unconditional love. Dolly's sisters, Doris Tucker, Joyce Fay, and Brenda Cordell, will miss her deeply, as will her numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her beloved spouse, Cecil Powell, her daughter, Angela Raines, and her parents.

Dolly’s life was a testament to her unwavering faith and her commitment to her community. She was a dedicated member of the First Assembly of God in Phenix City, where she found great joy in fellowship and serving others. Her passion for her faith was evident in her everyday actions and the way she instilled the importance of family and Christianity in those around her.

A proud retiree of Mead Corporation, Dolly had a successful career as a secretary at Bickerstaff as well, where she was known for her professionalism and warm demeanor. Her colleagues remember her as a passionate and hardworking individual who brought light and laughter into the office every day.

Dolly's interests reflected her love for the simple joys in life. She was an avid reader of the Bible and found solace in the wisdom of its passages. Crossword puzzles were a favorite pastime, allowing her sharp mind to reveal itself in the joy of solving them. Yet, above all, her dedication to her family stood paramount. She was the embodiment of a family-oriented individual, often seen at the heart of family gatherings, sharing stories and creating memories that would be passed down through generations. Described by those who knew her best as faith-filled and passionate, Dolly's influence reached far beyond the confines of her immediate circle. Her warmth, generosity, and the deep-seated values she lived by left an indelible mark on her community.

Visitation for Dolly will be held on Monday, May 5th, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM ET at Colonial Funeral Home in Phenix City, AL. A graveside service will celebrate her life on Tuesday, May 6th, 2025, at 11:00 AM ET at Fort Mitchell National Cemetery.

Dolly's life story is one of unwavering love, profound faith, and an enduring commitment to the values she held dear. She navigated life's challenges with grace and emerged as a pillar of strength for all who were fortunate enough to know her.

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