John Earnest Adkins

John arrived in our world 87 years ago on Sunday, March 1, 1936, and was lovingly embraced by his parents, Noble Earnest Adkins and Lillian Hogan Adkins. On Wednesday, September 13, 2023, surrounded by his loving family, God softly spoke to John and assured him that he had fought the good fight, finished the course of his race, had kept the faith, and it was now time for him to return home to be with Him. John who was tired from his battle, accepted the call, in the twinkling of the eye, he took his final breath, and peacefully left us.

John was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle and friend. He was a kind, caring, compassionate, and considerate person. He never met a stranger, and had the ability to spread warmth and empathy to everyone he met. He will be greatly missed and will forever hold a place in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

John retired from Winn Dixie in 2001 after 47 years of service. He was an active member of Coalburg Independent Baptist Church.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Noble Earnest Adkins and Lillian Hogan Adkins; sisters, Cathryn Marie Adkins, Gwendolyn Little Teems, and Myra Faulk; brother's-in- law, Sammie Faulk, Earnest Little, and L.K. Little, sister-in law, Jane Adkins.

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Betty Clay Adkins; his daughter, Janice Adkins; his son, David Adkins (Tracie); his sister, Doris Adkins Little; his brother, Sidney Adkins (Wanda); step granddaughter, Kaylin Thomas; step grandson, Jeffrey Thomas; a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family extends a special thank you to the staff of Compassus Hospice.

A visitation for John will be held Sunday, September 17, 2023 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Rideout's Gardendale Chapel, 2029 Decatur Highway, Gardendale, AL 35071, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 pm with his nephew, Bro. Donald Abney officiating. Special music by his nephew, Charles Abney.

Pallbearers are John Mitchell, Bruce Hall, Matt Hall, Frank Vickery, Frankie Woods, and Dale "Wildman" Woods.

John will be laid to rest in Walker Chapel Cemetery, 1200 Ellard Road, Fultondale, AL 35068.