Louie Rex Adkins

Louie Rex Adkins, beloved son, brother, uncle, mentor, and friend, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on October 29, 2026, at St. Joseph Hospital in Orange, California, surrounded by family and friends. He was 96 years old.

Born on December 22, 1929, in Rockvale, Kentucky, Louie grew up in a small town during the Great Depression. He lost his father at an early age and was raised by his mother and other family members. Those humble beginnings helped shape a life marked by determination, hard work, and devotion to others.

Following high school, Louie served in the United States Army from 1948 to 1952. At just 21, he earned promotion to the rank of master sergeant, an extraordinary achievement at such a young age. After his military service, he attended Woodbury University in Southern California, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration.

Louie went on to build an exceptional career in the automotive transport industry. Starting as a file clerk at Robertson Truckaways, he worked his way up to vice president and general manager through his leadership, perseverance, and strong work ethic. In 1994, he and his business partner, Steve Hansen, co-founded Hansen & Adkins Auto Transport. Together, they built it into one of the nation’s largest automobile transport companies.

In 2021, the Automotive Logistics Executive Committee (ALEC) honored Louie with its Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing 63 years of service, dedication, and leadership in the automotive industry. He earned the admiration of colleagues and employees alike, not only for his professional accomplishments but also for the relationships he cultivated and the people he mentored. Even after the company was sold in August 2026, Louie remained actively involved as an adviser until his passing.

Beyond his professional achievements, Louie was a man of wide-ranging interests and remarkable talents. An avid reader, he could recite lengthy passages from Shakespeare, and his skills in the kitchen rivaled those of a professional chef. He possessed a quick wit, a generous spirit, and a gift for making those around him feel welcome.

To his nieces and nephews, he was affectionately known as “Uncle Rex,” although the title hardly captured his place in their lives. More than an uncle, he was often a father figure, offering guidance, encouragement, and steadfast support. His home was a gathering place for family and friends, especially during the holidays. For more than 60 years, he hosted the family’s Christmas Eve celebration, creating a cherished tradition that brought generations together.

Louie is survived by his sister-in-law, Beverly Adkins of Vero Beach, Florida; his nephews, Bertrum (Deedee) Adkins Jr., Phillip (Cheryl) Williams, Mark Williams, James Adkins, and Paul (Nina) Adkins; his nieces, Linda (Mike) Bennett, Cherie (Don) Swader, Beckie Selph, Bobbie (Gary) Parris, Kimberly (Don) Schwartzenruber, and Debra Clemens; his dear friend Iran Jahansuzi; and many great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bertrum and Carey Adkins; his brothers, Bertrum Adkins Sr., J.T. Adkins, and Paul Adkins; his sister, Joyce Williams; his nephew, Christopher Williams; and his niece, Deborah Lee.

Louie will be remembered for his intelligence, humor, generosity, unwavering faith, and profound love of family. His example of leadership, integrity, and service will continue to inspire all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.

His life verse was 2 Timothy 4:7–8:

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”

A service celebrating Louie’s life will be held on Friday, January 15, 2027, at 12:00pm at Waverly Chapel, Fairhaven Memorial Park Mortuary, 1702 Fairhaven Avenue, Santa Ana, California 92705. A reception will follow, with details shared at the service.

At Louie’s request, memorial gifts in lieu of flowers may be made to:

Fred Jordan Missions

445 Towne Avenue

Los Angeles, California 90013

A Celebration of Life will be held at Fairhaven Memorial Park Mortuary, 1702 Fairhaven Avenue, Santa Ana, CA 92705, US, on January 15, 2027, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm.