North Andover - Deanna B. (Hudgins) Atchison, 86, long-time Andover resident, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 6, 2026.

Born in Lawrence on December 15, 1939, Deanna was the daughter of the late Dean and Doris (Stone) Hudgins. Raised in Andover, she graduated from Punchard High School and went on to earn her teaching degree from Salem State College. She loved teaching and brought her characteristic patience, warmth, and encouragement to her students leaving a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to learn from her. She also loved her years working at Memorial Hall Library in Andover and always treasured her friendships with her colleagues.

Deanna lived a life centered on her faith and her family and friends. She was kind to everyone she met. She had a gentle sense of humor, thoughtful nature, and a way of making people feel welcome and cared for. She loved reading, playing the piano, and was a talented sewist, making clothes, dolls, and toys for her children. Devoted to her Christian faith, she was an actvie and longtime member of South Church in Andover, where she worshipped and served alongside her beloved husband. Her faith guided her life and shaped her compassion and generosity for which she was known.

She shared a loving marriage with her late husband, John H. Atchison, whose memory she cherished. They shared many interests to include relaxing at York Beach, traveling, and in the early years, dancing.

Deanna is lovingly survived by her daughter, Amy Joy Cagli of Arlington, VA, and her son, William John Atchison of Merrimack, New Hampshire. She has two grandchildren, Ibrahim John Cagli and Isabelle Meryem Cagli of Arlington, Virginia who she visited often and shared many laughs with. She also leaves behind extended family members, dear friends, caregivers, former students, and neighbors whose lives were brightened by her kindness and steady presence.

A memorial service celebrating Deanna's life will be held on May 27 2026, at 11 a.m. at South Church, 41 Central Street, Andover, MA.

A private burial will take place at West Parish Garden Cemetery in Andover.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Bread and Roses and Lazarus House, organizations that Deanna and John supported.

Bread and Roses and Lazarus House are organizations that directly help our community by fighting hunger, softening hardship, and providing resources to those in need. To donate, please visit the link below or send a check to South Church at 41 Central Street Andover MA 01810 with the memo noted where you would like your donation to go, Bread and Roses and/or Lazarus House.

via https://onrealm.org/SouthChurch/give/deanna

To offer online condolences please visit www.contefuneralhomes.com.