Leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints attended a memorial service Friday, October 30, for Pamela J. Atkinson. Atkinson was a humanitarian and advocate in Utah who was sometimes referred to as Utah’s Mother Teresa.
The service was held at the First Presbyterian Church in Salt Lake City. President D. Todd Christofferson, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, represented the Church at the event. He was accompanied by Elder Patrick Kearon of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, who offered brief remarks on behalf of the Church.
Atkinson died Oct. 10 at age 93. Born in the greater London area in 1933, she overcame childhood poverty and hardship to become a nurse, educator, health care executive, and community leader. She was recognized as an advocate for refugees, low-income families, the homeless, and others in need.
Atkinson is survived by her three children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her family noted in an obituary that she embodied the pure love of Christ through her life of supporting and uplifting others.
