Atkins Family Genealogy & History

Susan Denise Atkins, born on May 7, 1948, was an American convicted murderer and a prominent member of Charles Manson's "Family." Known within the group as Sadie Mae Glutz, Atkins was involved in a series of nine murders in California during the summer of 1969, including the infamous Tate murders. Originally sentenced to death, her sentence was commuted to life imprisonment. Atkins remained incarcerated until her death in 2009, becoming California's longest-serving female inmate at the time. Her involvement in these crimes and her association with the Manson Family remain significant subjects of public and historical interest.

Born in San Gabriel, California, Susan Atkins was of English, Irish, Scottish, and German descent. She was the second of three children in a troubled family, with parents Jeanne and Edward John Atkins, both alcoholics. After her mother's death from cancer in 1964, Susan's family life became unstable. She and her younger brother were left to fend for themselves while their father worked away. Despite these challenges, she initially lived a middle-class life in San Jose, California, and was actively involved in her school's glee club and church choir.

Dame Eileen June Atkins, an illustrious English actress born on 15 June 1934, has made significant contributions to theatre, film, and television since 1953. Noteworthy achievements include a BAFTA TV Award and an Emmy for her role in "Cranford," along with three Olivier Awards for performances in "The Unexpected Man" and "Honour." A celebrated figure in the Royal Shakespeare Company since 1957, Atkins has received four Tony Award nominations, showcasing her enduring impact on Broadway. Her creative endeavors extend to co-creating the acclaimed television dramas "Upstairs, Downstairs" and "The House of Elliot."

Eileen Atkins was born in Lower Clapton, London, to Annie Ellen and Thomas Arthur Atkins. Her mother worked as a barmaid and factory worker, while her father was a gas meter reader and under-chauffeur. Raised in Tottenham, Eileen was the third child in the family. Her early life included engaging with the arts, influenced by a Romani prediction of fame, leading to dance classes and performances during the war years. Her education was supported by community figures, with a focus on refining her accent and introducing her to Shakespeare.

Essence Uhura Atkins, born on February 7, 1972, is a renowned American actress celebrated for her roles in popular television comedies. She gained fame starring as Tasha Yvette Henderson in "Smart Guy" and Dee Dee Thorne in "Half & Half." Atkins further showcased her talent in series like "Are We There Yet?" alongside Terry Crews and "Marlon" with Marlon Wayans. Her film credits include appearances in "How High," "Deliver Us from Eva," and the "A Haunted House" series. With a career spanning decades, Atkins has established herself as a versatile and enduring presence on screen.

Chester Burton Atkins, known as "Mister Guitar" and "the Country Gentleman," was a pivotal figure in American music, particularly in the creation of the Nashville sound, which broadened country music's appeal. A distinguished guitarist, Atkins's innovative picking style drew inspiration from Merle Travis and other legends like Django Reinhardt and Les Paul. He was a prolific producer at RCA Victor, working with icons such as Dolly Parton and Elvis Presley. Rolling Stone lauded him for reviving country music commercially, ranking him among the greatest guitarists. Atkins earned 14 Grammy Awards and numerous hall of fame inductions, solidifying his legacy in music history.

Born on June 20, 1924, in Luttrell, Tennessee, Chet Atkins was raised by his mother after his parents divorced when he was six. He was the youngest of four siblings and developed an early passion for music, swapping an old pistol and chores for his first guitar. Atkins's early life was marked by economic hardship and a move to Fortson, Georgia, due to asthma, where he lived with his father. His commitment to music continued throughout his life, significantly influenced by his family's musical background, including his half-brother Jim, a successful guitarist in New York.