MANSFIELD: Jerry Lee Adkins, a soul as vibrant and tender as the flowers he so dearly loved, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 7, 2025 in his home surrounded by his loved ones. He was 71. A lifelong nurturer of nature, animals, and people, Jerry’s gentle spirit left a mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
He was born December 21, 1953 in Mansfield, the first of his family to be born in a hospital, and grew up in rural Richland County with eight beloved brothers and sisters. A graduate of Clear Fork High School, Jerry worked at Daugherty’s before starting a 30-year career at Gorman-Rupp Industries. He was blessed with a strong work ethic and he retired from supervising, maintaining many friendships with his work family.
Jerry’s passion for flowers ran deep—not just for their beauty, but for their names, care, and meaning. He could identify nearly any bloom and would happily share stories about their origins or how best to help them thrive. His garden was more than a patch of land; it was a sanctuary filled with love, care, and color.
Whether singing, whistling, or simply humming a tune, Jerry filled the air with music. He adored old country legends like Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton, found peace in gospel music, and knew every word to The Sound of Music. Musicals played a joyful soundtrack to his life, and his voice was a constant comfort to those around him.
Jerry had a deep, spiritual heart and a kindness that extended to every living creature. He was known for feeding birds, squirrels, and stray cats with the same care and attention he gave to his cherished garden. Nature wasn’t just something Jerry enjoyed—it was something he honored. He was especially fond of his fur babies Sara, Dottie and Jelly who were his constant feline companions and the center of his love and affection.
In his home, a “Wall of Family Fame” displayed photos of loved ones with pride and sentiment. Mickey Mouse memorabilia brought smiles and nostalgia to guests, and his vivid collection of Fiesta ware and Copley animal and flower figurines gave color and warmth to every corner. He was a remarkable cook, known for meals made with love and care, always ready to welcome others to his table.
Jerry was thoughtful, attentive, and deeply honorable—a rare combination of qualities that made him everything others strived to be. He loved deeply, felt deeply, and gave selflessly.
Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy blooms in every garden he inspired, every song he sang, and every heart he touched.
He is survived by his siblings Otis (Helen) Adkins, Frank Adkins, Brenda Knuckles, Wilburn (Mona) Adkins, Angela Brady, Dennis (Cindy) Adkins, and Jeffrey Adkins; nieces and nephews whom he loved as his own children Lori, Shari, Mindy, Timmy, Tabby, Melissa, Karen, Amy, Troy, Jessica, Nathan, Misty, Alechia, Maria, Clayton, Jacob, and Kylie; many great and great great nieces and nephew and his lifelong friend Phil Leek.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents Otis and Alma (Hamm) Adkins, brother Benjamin Adkins; in-laws Mary Ellen Adkins, Herman Knuckles, and Donald Brady; and nephew Little Ben.
Friends may call Monday, May 12, 2025 from 1pm to 3 pm in the Bellville Snyder Funeral Home where the funeral service honoring Jerry will follow at 3 pm. Burial will follow in Bunkerhill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to S.T.O.P. the Overpopulation of Pets.
Please visit snyderfuneralhomes.com to leave a message of support to the family and to watch Jerry’s tribute video.
Funeral Home: Bellville Snyder Funeral Home
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com