Althea LaDell Atwood

Althea “LaDell” Atwood, 91, of Pampa, passed away May 23, 2019 in Pampa when Jesus welcomed her to her heavenly home.

Services will be 10:00 AM Saturday, June 1, 2019, at First Baptist Church, with Rev. Byron Williamson, pastor, officiating.  Burial will follow in Memory Gardens Cemetery under the direction of Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors.

LaDell, the only daughter of Floyd and Mattie Atherton, was born September 6, 1927 at home outside of Zybach. She attended Briscoe schools and graduated as salutatorian of Briscoe High School in 1947.  Growing up, LaDell enjoyed competing in 4-H contests and playing forward for the ladies Briscoe Bronco basketball team.  

LaDell was a dedicated wife and mother.  She treasured her children and embraced every moment with them.  She especially loved her role as MaMaw and Grandma.  LaDell was the beloved wife of her one and only love of 75 years, Teddy Joe Atwood.  They were married on August 23, 1947 in Wheeler.  Ted and LaDell celebrated their 71^st wedding anniversary in 2018. 

She was a devoted wife to Ted Atwood of the home; and a devoted mother to Phyllis Stuckey and husband Schuyler of Frisco, Ted Atwood, Jr. of Pampa, and Regina Sandefur and husband John of Borger.  LaDell will be fondly remembered by her grandchildren, Shawn and Allison Stuckey of Dallas, Brandon and Michelle Stuckey of Gainesville, Georgia, Jimmy Atwood of Beloit, Wisconsin, Zachary Sandefur of Garden City, Kansas, Caren and Jack Garrard of Skellytown, and Carmen Parker of Grove.  She was a loving great grandmother to Jackson and Drew Stuckey, Jonathon, Joshua, Jaina and Juliana Stuckey, Eric Cook, Kiley Fite, Devin and Holly Patterson, Mathew Robinson and Colton Garrard; and great-great grandmother to Aliyah and Alexzander Cook and Kai Garrard.  LaDell also leaves behind nieces, nephews and many other family members and friends who will miss her greatly. 

LaDell was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Mattie Atherton of Wheeler; three brothers, Darrell Atherton of Conroe, Darville Atherton of Wheeler, and Billie Atherton of Wheeler; and three great grandchildren, Jacob, Christopher and Eron Stuckey. 

Mrs. Atwood enjoyed spending time with family and friends.  She and Ted especially enjoyed going to Cabot Ranch in Colorado.  She loved sitting by the fire and teaching others how to fillet fish.  LaDell will always be remembered for her kindness and willingness to take care of others, including friends and family members.  She was famous for her homemade rolls and lemon meringue pie.  She didn’t think a meal was complete without a dessert or two.

LaDell loved the Lord and was a member of First Baptist Church in Pampa for 65 years.  Her favorite Bible verse was John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.”  She was also a leader in the Gray County 4-H Club.  Before her retirement in 1991, she worked at Hi-Land Fashions and Woodrow Wilson Elementary School. 

The family would like to express appreciation to the staff of Meredith Place Senior Living Center and Interim Hospice who showed LaDell such love and compassion throughout her illness.

Memorials may be made to a charity of choice.