Eddie J. Adkins

May 16th, 1939 – September 25th, 2015

Eddie was a quiet man with a fierce loyalty to all those he loved. He would often sit in a room full of people listening to a conversation. When he chose to contribute his wisdom, everyone knew to pay attention. He always put the needs of his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren before his own. He equally loved his children, whether he was blessed with them by birth or by marriage. He treated all his grandchildren with the love and discipline required to mold a young person into a responsible adult, whether they were biologically related or simply called him “grandpa.”

He served his community through countless projects with the Rotary Foundation, the Chamber of Commerce, Optimist International, the Art Council of Grand Prairie, and the Toastmasters.

He graduated from Texas Technical College (now Texas Tech University) with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting in 1969. Tax season came every year, and every year he put in extra hours to complete tax filings for all his clients as well as his friends and family. April 16th was probably his favorite time of year. He could be found on Lake Palestine with a fishing pole in his hand and a smile on his face.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Wanda J. Adkins; daughters, Melissa D. Adkins, Mandy D. Laird and Shelly Adkins; son-in law, Jerry Laird; grandchildren, Justin Adkins, Morgan Adkins, Billy and Jessica Inman, Brandon Inman, Eddie Taylor and Edith Inman, Leslee Nicole Inman, Brian Laird, Joshua Laird, Brianna Laird, and Quincy Campos; great-grandchildren, Molly Inman, Jack Inman, and Logan Inman. His son, Lesley R. Adkins, preceded him in death in 1993.