Betsy Viann Atkinson

Betsy V. Atkinson, 75, of Massillon, passed away peacefully while holding her father’s hand, early Monday morning, October 20, 2025. Born on March 15, 1950, in Barnesville, Ohio, Betsy was the beloved daughter of Guy J. Atkinson and the late Margaret M. (Morris) Atkinson. A proud graduate of Massillon Washington High School Class of 1968, she was an enthusiastic supporter of the Massillon Tigers and loved attending their football games. Betsy was a longtime member of First Christian Church and was known for her joyful spirit and kind heart. She loved to shop, adored everything “blue,” and cherished dinners and gatherings at the Massillon Club. She enjoyed reading, Friday night dinners with her cherished “Friday Night Group” at the Massillon Eagles, and visits to her favorite restaurant, Bocca Grande Italian Steakhouse, where she was always greeted with a smile and a hug from friends Larry and Renee. She also loved to travel and especially looked forward to annual fishing trips to Canada with her father and friends—memories she treasured deeply.

Betsy is survived by her loving and devoted father, best friend, and constant companion, Guy Atkinson; her aunt, Carole Gallagher of Barnesville, Ohio; and many cousins. She was preceded in death by her mother, Margaret M. Atkinson; her stepmother, Louise H. Atkinson; her beloved dog, Tiffany; and numerous aunts and uncles. Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Monday, October 27, 2025, at First Christian Church in Massillon, with Pastor Sara Koons officiating and Betsy’s former pastor and dear friend, Ralph Ricksecker, delivering the eulogy. The family will receive condolences one hour prior to the service, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. A private burial will take place on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at Ebenezer Cemetery in Bethesda, Ohio, where Betsy will be laid to rest beside her mother. Atkinson Feucht & Hare Funeral Home in Massillon and Campbell-Plumly-Milburn Funeral Home in Barnesville have been entrusted with arrangements. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff and friends at Chapel Hill Community and Crossroads Hospice for their exceptional care, support, and companionship. In lieu of flowers, trees, or plants, please consider a donation to Betsy’s favorite charity, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (http://stjude.org/donate).  Your memories and condolences are always welcome and may be added here to Betsy’s on-line guestbook.