Garnett Herman "Popeye" Adkins

The warmest and brightest light of our family has faded. Our precious father is forever at peace in the arms and glory of God. Garnett Herman (Popeye) Adkins passed away peacefully on January 10th, 2024 at the age of 92. He was born March 2, 1931 to the late Lloyd Montague and Cora Douglas Shelton Adkins in Alton, Virginia.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 70 years, Nancy Glass Adkins, older brother Julian Adkins, and younger brother Carroll Adkins. He is survived by his three children; Rev. David Lynn Adkins (Phyllis), Mark Alan Adkins, Cynthia Adkins Creasey (Mark); seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

 Having lost his father at a very young age, Popeye grew up in the Alton, Virginia community with his mother and two brothers. He attended Turbeville High School while simultaneously helping to run the family farm. He was drafted into the army at the age of 21 and served in Japan and Korea during the Korean War, wherein he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal. It is the fourth highest ranking award a service member can receive for a heroic deed or achievement in a combat zone.

Upon his return to the states, he was employed with Virginia Electric Power Company (Dominion Energy of today) and remained there for 42 years until his retirement in 1993. Together with his family, he was a dedicated member of McCanless United Methodist Church and was a valued addition to the church choir for many years. He was a very proud member of the American Legion Post 8 for his entire adult life where he served in many capacities to include President of the Honor Guard.

 This magnanimous personality was unparalleled. In an article written about him, his uncle, the former editor of the local newspaper, once wrote….. “the stage was robbed of a great and wonderful talent.” His presence was nothing short of captivating and you could be assured of entertainment to the finest degree whenever he was around. His proudest achievements were the lives created by his children and grandchildren and their accomplishments. His pride overflowed and he never missed an opportunity to share that with them.

He was an accomplished singer in his own right and was always willing to share his talent anytime and anywhere. From his “Hup Hups” during the parades, to singing from the choir loft on Sunday mornings, to general daily entertaining his family and friends, he will be devastatingly missed. We can be assured that heaven is much brighter and much more melodic since Pop joined the angel’s chorus.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, January 15, 2024 at 2:00 P.M. at Powell Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. David Adkins, Sr. officiating.  Interment to follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery with Military Honors.

For memorials, please consider McCanless United Methodist Church, 300 Edmunds  St., South Boston, VA 24592

The family will receive friends Monday, one hour prior to the service at Powell Funeral Home.

Online condolences maybe directed to www.powellfuneralinc.com or by visiting their Facebook page.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Powell Funeral Home, 1603 Wilborn Ave., South Boston, VA