Pamela Atkinson passed away on Oct. 10, leaving an extraordinary legacy as a nurse, adviser to Utah governors, and a tireless advocate for children, refugees, and those experiencing poverty or homelessness.
This lady of British heritage often drove the streets of Salt Lake County with her car full of warm clothing, ready to help anyone lucky enough to cross her path. Many political and civic leaders honored her memory, including Gov. Spencer Cox, who praised her lifelong compassion and service.
Former Gov. Gary Herbert called her a “remarkable servant” (Gephardt News, Oct. 11). Others who recognized her included Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson, the Utah and Salt Lake Democratic parties, the Fourth Street Clinic, the Road Home, former state Sen. Karen Hale, former LDS Presiding Bishop H. David Burton, and others.
Bishop Oscar Solis, representing the Catholic Diocese of Salt Lake City, encouraged Utahns to continue her care for “the least among us” (Diocese of Salt Lake City, Oct. 11).
A public statement from Chabad Lubavitch of Utah recognized Atkinson as a “beloved communal advocate” (Chabad Lubavitch of Utah’s Facebook post, Oct. 12).
Atkinson truly lived a life of Christ-like service, showing us what it means to help others: feed someone, find a coat, open a clinic, make a call, bring people together and never let bureaucracy excuse indifference. Her legacy continues through the Pamela Atkinson Resource Center (The Road Home, South Salt Lake), the Fourth Street Clinic (which bears her name), Pamela’s Place Apartments (affordable housing), and the Pamela Atkinson Homeless Trust Fund (a Utah state fund supported by tax donations).
And yet, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has not issued a public statement about Atkinson’s life of Christ-like service. Their lack of public recognition of Atkinson’s untiring charity, compassion and service is noted and disappointing.
No church is required to comment on every prominent death. However, the LDS Church is more than just another Utah congregation. It is the state’s largest religious institution, with significant civic influence and a well-oiled public voice. The LDS Church should recognize Atkinson for her more than sixty years of service to Utah and its people. The church’s humanitarian work and its teachings on ministering closely align with Atkinson’s tireless service to others.
A public tribute from the LDS Church may still come. Such a tribute would show that Christ-like service is important wherever it is found.
Bruce Parker, South Jordan