Gary Curtis Adkins

Gary Curtis Adkins was a man who loved deeply, worked hard, and never hesitated to lend a helping hand. Born in Kenova, West Virginia, and a longtime resident of Huntington, Gary built his life around the people and things that mattered most to him: his family, his country, his work, and the simple satisfaction of being there when someone needed him. Gary was the devoted husband of Sandra Adkins, his partner in life for more than 60 years and the person with whom he shared so many of life’s moments. Together, they built a family that Gary was incredibly proud of. He was a loving father to Sheila Denise Harmon and her husband, Jimmy Harmon, and Curtis Allen Adkins and his wife, Ann Adkins. His children and their spouses were a tremendous source of pride and joy to him. Perhaps nothing brought Gary more happiness than being a grandfather and great-grandfather. He adored Justin Harmon and his wife, Amelya, Tyler Harmon, and Jacob Harmon. He also took great pride in his great-grandchildren, Greyson Harmon and Spencyr Harmon. He loved watching his family grow, and the love he had for each of them was unmistakable. Gary had a charming personality and a way of making himself known. He could be quick to smile and easy to talk to, but he also had a serious side. When something mattered to Gary, it mattered deeply. He believed in working hard, staying busy, and doing things the right way. Even when life became difficult, he wanted to remain active and involved for as long as he could. One of the qualities that defined Gary was his willingness to help others. If a family member needed something, he was there. If a friend needed a hand, he was there. If a complete stranger needed help, Gary did not see any reason why that should make a difference. He had a generous spirit and believed in doing what he could for the people around him. Helping others was not something he had to think about. It was simply part of who he was. Gary was proud of his service to his country. He served in the United States Air Force from 1964 to 1968, achieving the rank of Airman First Class. His military service was an important part of his life, and he remained proud of having worn the uniform and served his country. Gary was also proud of his Masonic membership. He was a member of Ceredo Crescent Lodge #32, where he achieved the distinguished rank of Master Mason. The fellowship, friendship, and brotherhood he found through the Masonic Lodge were meaningful parts of his life, and he was proud to be a Mason. Gary had his loyalties when it came to sports. He was a dedicated fan of the Dallas Cowboys and Marshall University football. Those who knew him likely knew exactly where he stood on game day, and probably were not going to change his mind. More than anything, Gary was a family man. He loved his wife, his children and their spouses, his grandchildren, and his great-grandchildren with all his heart. His greatest legacy is not found in a job title or a particular accomplishment. It is found in the people he loved, the people he helped, and the memories he created along the way. Gary was preceded in death by his father, Kelly Adkins, and his mother, Eloise Adkins. He leaves behind a family who will miss his voice, his personality, his determination, and the way they could always count on him. They will miss the little things, the conversations, the stories, the laughter, and simply having him there. Gary’s life was measured not only by the years he lived, but by the lives he touched along the way. He gave his family his love, gave his country his service, and gave his time and kindness freely to those who needed him. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of the family he was so proud to call his own. A private funeral service was held for immediate family only.