LeeAnn Stocking (Atkinson), age 75, of The Dalles, Oregon, passed away at her home, after a 15-year battle with cancer, on Saturday, Feb. 24. She was born on Jan. 4, 1949, in Evanston, to Charles Edward Atkinson and Arlene McKinnon Hirst.
Both of her grandmothers — Delceno Atkinson and Minnie McKinnon — were a big part of her early life, as was her stepfather, Clair Hirst. She was a woman of great faith and love, whose kindness and warmth touched all who knew her.
LeeAnn was the beloved wife of Robert J. Stocking Jr. They were married April 28, 1967, and were later sealed in the Salt Lake Temple on July 14, 1977. Together they shared 56 years of marriage.
She was a nurturing mother to her children, Calvin (Heather), Kevin (Susan), and Darcey Hodges (Jeff); and a doting grandmother to her nine grandchildren: Nikkole, Cordell, Mackenzie, Chandler, Kelsen, Trey, Kyren, Kestley and Tenley.
She attended as many of her grandchildren’s music and sporting events as possible, even streaming them online when she couldn’t make it.
Throughout her life, LeeAnn enjoyed many family activities including trips to Bear Lake, decorating graves every Memorial Day, golfing with family, pack trips to the Uinta Mountains and Jackson. She enjoyed bowling and running in races, including a 10k in Wyoming.
Favorite trips were to New Orleans; Cooperstown, New York; and Alabama to watch grandsons play baseball; attending National Rodeo Finals in Las Vegas and going to the Oregon coast. Another favorite trip was to Branson, Missouri, with her husband, siblings and their spouses.
Her commitment to her faith was evident in her active participation in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where she served in various roles. Her love of music was lifelong. She was always found playing piano, directing music at church and encouraging her children and grandchildren to play various instruments.
LeeAnn’s talents extended to her masterful quilting, which she lovingly shared with family and friends. She also spent a great deal of time making baby blankets, sewing jackets for her grandchildren and tole painting.
Throughout her life, LeeAnn was dedicated to her work, contributing her skills and compassion as a school aide, secretary, librarian, and employee for 14 years at Rip’s Grocery in Evanston. Her dedication to education and service within her community was a testament to her character.
LeeAnn is survived by her husband, Robert; their children; grandchildren; brothers, Ron Atkinson (Kathy) and Will Atkinson (Donell); and sister, Charlene Berlin (Eric).
She was preceded in death by her grandparents, parents, and several aunts and uncles.
The family has entrusted Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home with the final arrangements.
A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered.
Her service was at noon on March 2, with a viewing from 10:30-11:45 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in The Dalles, Oregon.
Her spirit will be greatly missed, and her memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of those she loved.
Final resting place with graveside services will be at noon on Saturday, March 16, at the Evanston City Cemetery in Evanston.
