In loving memory of Eugene “Gene” Douglass Adkins, whose gentle spirit and unwavering love brought comfort to all who knew him. Gene, aged 84, peacefully departed this life at home in McKinney, Texas, on April 17, 2024.
Gene, the first of five children, was born in Penelope, Texas on December 22, 1939, to Walter Preston Shurette and Mozelle LaVern (Blount) Adkins, who imparted their faith and love of the simple things in life. Gene attended Connelly High School in Lacy Lakeview, Texas, before joining the United States Army serving his country proudly from 1960 to 1963 eventually training Vietnam allies in the skill of helicopter repelling during the Vietnam War. Following his service, he went on to acquire his commercial driver's license (CDL). Gene dedicated many years of his career at ABF Trucking, where he displayed dedication and professionalism to the transport industry.
Gene met the love of his life, Wanda Jean Blankenship, while attending a cowboy polo tournament in 1976. Excited to start their new lives together, the two were married later that year on August 6th at First United Methodist Church in Allen, Texas. They spent their honeymoon in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma taking in the sights of the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and Oklahoma State Firefighters Museum. Set up by friends, their life together would span the next 48 years.
Early life was defined by cherished moments spent with loved ones, with outdoor adventures being a special time of togetherness. Weekends were often committed to the relaxation of the lake, where family, dear friends, and angling escapades gave rise to enduring tales. Gene passed down his passion for fishing to both his children and several grandchildren, creating lasting memories and imparting timeless skills. As the years unfolded, vacations became odysseys across the Great Plains, Rocky Mountains, and the scenic Western Coast, serving as memorable destinations for unforgettable trips with cherished companions.
Gene enjoyed collecting unique and historical knives and learning about Civil War and military history. His passion for history would lead him to museums, battlefields, and historical sites across the country. In addition to his love for history and knives, Gene’s hobbies included various outdoor activities, particularly hunting, fishing, and camping. He was a true cowboy at heart, finding joy in classic black and white western shows and movies. He acquired the skill of woodworking, with the guidance of a friend, which led him to craft several small tables, including a special one to display his cherished knife collection, as well as rocking chairs and shadow boxes to preserve precious keepsakes. In his earlier years, Gene’s adventurous spirit led him to participate in bull and bronco riding, highlighting his fearless nature. He had a passion for weather watching and a love for country music that resonated throughout his life.
Gene treasured his role as a grandfather, lovingly known as Papa or Poppie. He delighted in sharing moments of joy with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whether engaging in card and board games, quietly cheering at various sporting events, roaming outdoors, or even donning the iconic big red suit to spread holiday cheer during festive gatherings.
Gene was a devoted member of the historical Chambersville United Methodist Church for over 35 years serving as a Deacon, embodying his faith through his actions and kindness towards others. Attentive to the Church and Community Center, he tended to their upkeep. With his grandchildren by his side, he faithfully maintained the church every week and eagerly involved them in serving whenever possible. His careful planning ensured the success of countless events at the Community Center, from joyous family reunions to heartfelt baby showers, celebratory wedding receptions, vital community meetings, and church gatherings.
Chambersville United Methodist Church recently remodeled with several new stained-glass windows provided through the generosity of many faithful servants. The Good Samaritan-stained glass window was given in honor of Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Adkins by Larry, Leslie, and April Golsby of Celina, Texas. As the Golsby family reflects on their compassion and kindness, they aptly declare, "They were the Good Samaritan to us." The impact of Mr. and Mrs. Adkins transcends time, as their selfless deeds profoundly touched the hearts of those around them. The Golsby family acknowledges, "What an impact they had, maybe not on a million lives, but our lives." The stained-glass window serves as a testament to their unwavering spirit of generosity and love.
Gene enriched the Chambersville United Methodist Church community and the countless lives he touched. He will always be remembered for his warmth and soft-spoken genuine spirit and will be deeply missed by his family and friends who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
He is survived by his wife, Wanda Jean Adkins of McKinney, Texas; daughter, Gina Martin and husband, Bobby of China Spring, Texas; son, Brian Adkins and wife, Karen, of McKinney, Texas; and stepson, Eric Byrd and wife, Kristi of Allen, Texas; sister, Kay Miller of Atlanta, Georgia; brother, Keith Adkins and wife, Linda of Lacy Lakeview, Texas; grandchildren, Erica Byrd, Taylor Columbus, Morgan Jaynes, Mason Jaynes, Madison Sturdivant and husband, Daniel, Antonia West and husband, Jacob, McKeni Adkins, Raegan Martin, and Jodi Hedgcoxe; and great-grandchildren, Malana, Harlynn, Zaiden, Brynlee, Colbie, Hayden, and Holden.
Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Preston Shurette and Mozelle LaVern (Blount) Adkins; and brothers, Charles and James “Jimmy” Adkins.
A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, April 27, 2024, at Chambersville United Methodist Church, 2210 Chambersville Road, McKinney, Texas 75071 where family and friends will gather to honor his life and legacy. Gene will be inurned at the Chambersville Cemetery next to his church home. After the ceremony, family and friends are invited to convene at the Community Center for lunch and fellowship.
Memorial donations may be made in Gene’s memory to the Parkinson’s Foundation.