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In memory of

Gary William Adkins

Clearwater, FL, USA

October 30, 1949 - February 14, 2021

Oct 30, 1949 - Feb 14, 2021

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Gary William Adkins, 71, passed away Sunday, February 14, 2021.

Gary was born October 30, 1949 to William and Maggie (Blake) Adkins in Rittman, Ohio. He was a member of the Springfield High School class of 1967 and served in the U.S. Army from 1971 until 1972. He loved playing guitar and listening to music. He loved the beach and spent many years vacationing and making memories with his family in Florida and the Carolinas. Gary worked for General Tire until they closed in 1982, but spent most of his career as a truck driver, both locally and long-distance. He was very proud to retire from FedEx Freight in 2016 after 16 years of employment, at which time he and Bert made the move to Florida to become "snow birds". Sadly, this past year was tough on Gary's health. After victoriously battling many health problems over the past 17 years, he wasn't able to win this last fight.

Gary is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Roberta; daughter, Cassi (Shane) Grizer; son, Sean Adkins; grandchildren, Hali Adkins, Riley Adkins, Maggie Grizer and Layten Adkins; brother, Robert (Denise) Adkins; sisters, Patricia Johnson and Eva (Tom) Schick; and many adoring nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Gary is preceded in death by his brother, Larry Adkins; sisters, Donna Byers and Rebecca Rollyson; niece, Lisa Turnbaugh and nephew, Christopher Rollyson.

Gary was beloved by all who knew him. He didn't say much, and usually kept to himself, but he had a presence about him that forced others to take notice. He was gentle, but strong; quiet, but confident; and modest, but passionate. He worked hard, loved harder, and protected fiercely. He was a legend...a force of nature...and his impact will leave a lasting impression on the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

To honor Gary's memory and legacy, the family will be hosting a Celebration of Life on June 20, 2021. This date is significant because not only is it Father's Day, it also would have been the 15th anniversary of Gary's kidney transplant.

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