Tyson Christopher Adkins, age 18, of Shelby, died tragically Monday, September 22, 2025, as a result of injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident.
Born October 5, 2006, in Painesville, Ohio, Tyson was lovingly adopted at birth by his parents Christopher John and Marlene Frances (Steele) Adkins. Tyson attended Shelby City Schools, graduating this past May from both Shelby Senior High School and Pioneer Career and Technology Center with the Class of 2025. He was a member of the Shelby High School bowling team, a sport and hobby he truly loved.
Tyson was mechanically inclined and had a true passion for tinkering. He enjoyed working on small engines—especially lawn mowers—and thrived on the challenge of taking things apart and fixing them back up. Around town, Tyson was well-known for riding his lawn mower through Shelby, often with a trailer hitched to the back. It wasn’t uncommon to see him driving with lawn chairs set up on that trailer, passengers aboard, bringing laughter and smiles to everyone who saw him.
Tyson also loved the outdoors and found joy in spending time in nature. An avid fisherman, he enjoyed casting for bass and walleye and looked forward to ice fishing each winter. He was equally passionate about hunting—whether it was deer, turkey, or pheasant—and also took great enjoyment in sporting clay shooting and hiking. Tyson was a proud member of the Richland County Fish and Game Club, where he shared these interests with fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
Animals held a special place in Tyson’s heart, particularly dogs. He could never pass by one without wanting to stop and pet it, always asking permission first. That gentle kindness and natural respect for others was a hallmark of his personality.
Tyson will be remembered most for his kind and compassionate spirit. He was polite and respectful, always eager to lend a helping hand to anyone in need—especially when it involved fixing something or assisting with a project. His determination and focus were unmatched, setting his mind to a task and sticking it through to completion. His giving heart, playful nature, and strong work ethic left a lasting impression on all who knew and loved him.
Tyson is survived by his loving parents: Chris and Marlene; paternal grandparents: John and Karen Adkins of Mansfield; aunts and uncles: Rich and Jill Steele, Ken Steele, Mark Steele, Kelly Lee, and Shari and Don Miller; and numerous cousins, great aunts and uncles including Marcia Hall with whom he was close, and friends. Tyson was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents: Archie and Marie Steele; uncles: Jeremy Adkins and David Lee; and cousin: Evan Steele.
Family and friends are welcome on Tuesday, September 30, 2025 from 3-7 pm at the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, October 1, 2025 at 10:30 am at Core Community Church, 18 Seneca Drive, Shelby, with Pastors Ben Carver and Mark Lehman officiating. Burial will follow in Oakland Cemetery, Shelby. A meal and gathering will follow at Core Community Church and guests are welcomed and encouraged to attend. Memorial contributions may be made to Core Community Church or to the Shelby Whippet Athletic Boosters (Bowling Team), c/o Cathy Dodge, 145 Mansfield Avenue, Apt. 7, Shelby, Ohio 44875
Online condolences may be left at on Tyson’s obituary on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or on Facebook page (Facebook.com/PenwellFuneralHome).