Billie “Darlene” Atha, 83, of Richmond, died Thursday, Dec. 31, 2020, at Shirkey Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Richmond.

Darlene was born on Jan. 15, 1937, in Richmond, the daughter of William and Lottie (Rogers) Chaney. She was united in marriage to Clifton “Junior” Atha of Ethel on June 1, 1958. He preceded her in death on Jan. 9, 1986.

Survivors include: three daughters, Mary Haines of Excelsior Springs, Sheryl Schnittker of Henrietta and Brenda (Steve) Day of Liberty; 13 grandchildren, Daniel Pittman, Christopher Pittman, Patrick (Miranda) Riley, Joshua (Megan) Harris, William Schnittker, Jason Schnittker, Travis Schnittker, Robert (Cortny) Schnittker, Brandon (Eliza) Payne, David (Jolene) Martens Jr., Dwayne (Amy) Martens and Tyrell Martens; and 22 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; daughter, Sheila Ann Martens; sister, Carolann Stephens; and four grandsons, Kyle Payne, Rawdon Payne, Richard Payne and Logan Schnittker.

Darlene was reared and educated in Ray County and graduated from Hardin High School. While growing up, she worked at her parents’ café in Hardin. She was a housewife and homemaker.

Darlene was an animal lover. She especially enjoyed watching birds (hummingbirds), and loved cats and dogs. She liked watching Western movies, reading, crocheting and doing embroidery, and was a history buff. Darlene enjoyed her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and other family members.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to donor’s choice. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation was held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2021, at Thurman Funeral Home, Richmond. Graveside services were held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 6, in Bell Cemetery, near Ethel.

Please share your memories of Darlene with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.