Norma Jean Atkinson was born Norma Jean Lenderman on September 30, 1952 to Wanda and Eugene Lenderman. Norma along with her parents and two brothers Ray and Larry grew up in Silver city New Mexico. She was the apple of her daddy's eye even when her and her mom were thick as thieves. She graduated high school in 1971. She was blessed with two children. Norma married the love of life Jimmy Clark Atkison on December 22 1979. Norma had a passion for caring for others and this lead her on her career path to become a Physician's Assistant in 1993. Norma graduated medical school from The University of North Dakota. She served communities in Colorado and New Mexico including her home of Tatum, NM where she was the resident PA for 25 years. She also served her community as an EMT and city council member. Together Norma and Jimmy built a life of love providing for their family and creating an amazing legacy. Her greatest treasures will always be her family. Norma loved to travel and see beautiful places like Colorado, Alaska, and Hawaii but her home would always be in New Mexico. Norma was a very determined and passionate woman she could do anything. She touched many lives and will be greatly missed.

She proceeded in death by her parents: Wanda and Eugene Lenderman; by her daughter: Bridget and niece: Shari.

She is survived by the love of her life husband Jimmy: brothers: Ray and Larry (Brenda); Son: Michael; her grandchildren: Darianna Sparks (Josh), Dylaina Gauvey (Chauncey), Breccen Morelli, and Hope Morelli. As well as her nieces, nephews and 4 great grandchildren

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, March 19, 2025 at 10:00am at First Baptist Church in Tatum with Charles Day officiating. Burial will follow at Tatum Cemetery.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 18 2025 from 1:00 pm until 3:00 pm at Kirby-Ratliff Funeral Home.

Condolences may be sent to www.kirbysmithrogers.com.