John Adkins

John B. "Bill" Adkins, 68, of Mansfield died early Monday morning, January 28, 2008 in his home. He fought a courageous ten-month battle with cancer and is now with his Lord and Savior. Born August 18, 1939 in Pritchard, West Virginia, he was the son of Jonah and Bertha Isaac Adkins. Bill was best known for the lives he touched with his music. He played country music for 20 years with his wife, Flora. He was then saved and touched many lives with his gospel music. He and Flora performed countless benefits for people throughout the area. They traveled throughout the U.S. sharing their gospel music at numerous churches. He and his wife were members of Word of Faith Harvest House. All who heard him sing and play celebrated Bill's gift of music. His quick wit and ability to light up a room with his humor will be remembered forever in the hearts of his family and friends. A great handyman, he enjoyed visiting garage sales and flea markets to see what treasures he could find. His family will remember their get-togethers and his family "pepperoni rolls".

On January 16, 1972, he married the love of his life, Flora J. Martin Adkins who survives him. He is also survived by his children, Molly Tim Dials, Rhonda Marhulic, Kathy Darrell Elkins, Bill Lee Adkins, John Michael Adkins, Rodney Sherman, Sissy Danny Skelton, all of Mansfield, David Andi King of Bellville; twenty-five grandchildren, Andy, Bridgette, Cozy, Heath, Tisha, Billie, Justin, Danny, Cody, Brian, Molly, Wyatt, Wynona, Tony, Haley, Chase, David, Bunny, Corey, Amber, Ashlie, Rodney III, Maile, John, Lee II; fourteen great-grandchildren; and three brothers, Charle E. Fredia Adkins, Beecher G. Adkins, all of Mansfield, Daniel L. BettyAdkins of Delphos; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were his parents; grandson, Shawn; sister, Bertie; and several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

Friends may call from 5-8 p.m., Wednesday, January 30 at the Diamond Street Home of Wappner Funeral Directors. Funeral services conducted by Pastor Buddy Barrows will be Thursday at 11:00 a.m. in the funeral home. Burial will follow in Mansfield Memorial Park.