William Raymond Adkins' Obituary
William Raymond Adkins, 87, of Chesapeake, Ohio, transitioned to his heavenly home on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
William was born in Huntington, WV, the son of the late Elige Adkins and Lora Adkins (Gooderham). He joined the U.S. Navy in 1955 and served aboard the USS Hugh Purvis DD-709 until being honorably discharged in 1957 when he returned to Huntington WV.
William married the love of his life, Laura June Adkins, on October 22, 1960, and celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary prior to his passing. In addition to his loving wife, he leaves to cherish his memory his children; William D. Adkins of Norfolk, Virginia; Karen S. Thompson (Sonny) of Chesapeake, Virginia; and Ronald W. Adkins (Cynthia) of New Port Richey, Florida. He is also survived by his brother Edward Adkins of Cache, Oklahoma and his sister Jane Wilson of Washington Courthouse, Ohio as well as numerous nieces and nephews. William leaves behind 11 grandchildren: Jonathan, Amanda, Carolyn, Rebecca, Nathaniel, Aaron, Josiah, Heather, Joshua, Kimberly, and Jeffrey. He was also blessed with 27 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. In addition to his parents, William was preceded in death by his son Jeffrey E. Adkins, his sister Mary Evans, and brothers Kenneth and Henry Adkins.
William was employed by Newport News Shipbuilding from 1974-2000 and worked in department X32 responsible for building, fabricating, and installing components vital for the complex systems on nuclear carriers and submarines. He was known for his strong work ethic and well respected for his discipline and perfection in all that he did.
William was a devout Christian and believer in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He served for many years in the roles of Choir Member, Usher, Head Usher, and Security at the churches he attended. He was a member of New Beginning Apostolic Church, Huntington, WV. Visitation will be held at 10:00 – 11:00am on Monday 29 December 2025 at Hall Funeral Home & Crematory at 625 OH-775, Proctorville, OH 45669. Funeral service will immediately follow, with Rev. Todd Mills, officiating. Interment will be at White Chapel Memorial Gardens, 7955 US-60, Barboursville, WV 25504. Condolences may be expressed to the family at https://ehallfuneralhome.com
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