Longtime United Methodist Pastor Donna Atkinson Dies at 85

Rev. Donna Atkinson served churches across Northern Illinois before passing away in January 2026.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Rev. Donna Louise Allen Atkinson, a United Methodist pastor who served churches in Blue Island, Harvey, Chicago Heights, and Highland Park, as well as a District Superintendent in Northern Illinois, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2026 at the age of 85. She is survived by her daughter, step-daughters, siblings, and many other family members and friends.

Why it matters

Rev. Atkinson's passing marks the end of a long and impactful career serving Methodist congregations across the Chicago area. As a female pastor, she broke barriers and paved the way for greater representation in religious leadership roles.

The details

Rev. Atkinson served as a United Methodist pastor for many years, leading congregations in several suburbs of Chicago. She is remembered for her dedication to her faith and her community, as well as her trailblazing role as a female pastor in a traditionally male-dominated field.

  • Rev. Donna Louise Allen Atkinson passed away on January 27, 2026.
  • A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at First United Methodist Church in Waukegan, Illinois.

The players

Rev. Donna Louise Allen Atkinson

A United Methodist pastor who served churches in Blue Island, Harvey, Chicago Heights, and Highland Park, as well as a District Superintendent in Northern Illinois, before passing away in January 2026 at the age of 85.

Brittany Williams

Rev. Atkinson's daughter.

Ruth Atkinson

Rev. Atkinson's step-daughter.

Wendy Atkinson

Rev. Atkinson's step-daughter.

Sherry Ripak

Rev. Atkinson's sister.

Frederick Allen

Rev. Atkinson's brother.

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What’s next

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at First United Methodist Church in Waukegan, Illinois.

The takeaway

Rev. Donna Atkinson's passing marks the end of a long and impactful career serving Methodist congregations across the Chicago area. As a female pastor, she broke barriers and paved the way for greater representation in religious leadership roles.