Susan Atkins, 69, of Richardson, Texas, died peacefully on Friday, November 11, 2016, surrounded by her family.  She was born on July 8, 1947 in Commerce, Texas, the daughter of James Donald Atkins and Jo Evelyn Duncan.

Growing up in Commerce, Susan attended Commerce High School, graduating in 1965.  She then attended East Texas State University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education and a Master of Science in school counseling.  Following college, Susan married Clayton Carnes on December 24, 1968.   She taught for many years in the Plano Independent School District at Memorial Elementary School, then spent five years teaching in Dallas, after which she retired.

Susan enjoyed a variety of activities.  She had a real passion for reading.  She also enjoyed writing, short stories and poetry being among her favorites.  She had a very special place in her heart for her dog, Nicki. 

Susan is survived by her daughters Kelli Jo Landry and Tara Nicole Carnes; grandchildren Alec Griffin and Ryan Griffin and siblings Jimmy Atkins and Cindy Atkins.

 She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Jo Atkins and her sister, Charlotte Chapin.

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