Zelma Margaret Adkins

Funeral services for Zelma Margaret Black Adkins, 88, of Grand Prairie, are scheduled for 11am. Wednesday, January 28, at First United Methodist Church in Grand Prairie with Rev. Gifford Long officiating. Burial will follow at 1 pm. at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery in Dallas.

Zelma Adkins was born in Grand Prairie on February 15, 1926 to Truma and Oliver Black, she was a lifelong resident of Grand Prairie and for many years was with G.H. Turner Insurance Co. downtown. After graduating from Grand Prairie High School, she married Thomas Wayne Adkins in 1948, beginning many years of happy marriage as well as a special friendship. Their shared love of travel in their RV took them across the United States visiting family, acquaintances and enjoying sights from the East to the West coast. Among their greatest pleasures was square dancing with the Diamond Jubileers. She was also an active participant in the Diamond Dolls. A surprise 50th Anniversary Party was celebrated with family and Diamond Jubileers in 1998. After retiring, she had more time for her love of baking, sewing and shopping.

She remained active in the New Life Sunday School Class of First United Methodist Church all her life, having attended services there since she was a child living just around the corner on North Street.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Truma and Oliver Black; sister, Tinie Black; brothers, Wolford Black and Wilkes Black. She is survived by her sons, John Wayne Adkins of Arlington and Don Earl Adkins of Florida; grandchildren Michael Adkins of St. Louis, MO. Ryan Adkins of Arlington, Clay Adkins of Georgetown, Andrew Adkins of Dayton Fl. and Robert Adkins of New York; six great grandchildren; nieces, Margaret Black Liles of Grand Prairie, Mary Jeanne Watson of Arlington and Bonny Black Edmonds of Tyler.

Her special, loyal companion was TJ, the cat. The family will receive friends Tuesday, January 27, from 6 to 8 pm. at Bean-Massey-Burge Funeral Home. IN lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be considered in Zelma's name to the First United Methodist Church in Grand Prairie or the charity of your choice.