Carolyn Adkins Lewis

Carolyn Adkins Lewis was born on August 20, 1948 in Charles City County, Virginia the oldest of nine children. She passed away on February 19, 2025, at her home in Henrico, Virginia. She was a woman of faith, having joined the church at the young age of nine, and carried that faith with her throughout her life. For 30 years, Carolyn was a dedicated and hard working employee at Philip Morris, where she served as a Lab Technician. Her commitment to excellence was evident in everything she did. Carolyn had a passion for traveling, particularly cruising, even though she always developed nausea at sea. Her favorite destination was Las Vegas, where she and her beloved husband, William, traveled two to three times a year. She also found joy in bowling and had all the gear — her own bag, ball, and duster — despite those who knew her, knew she “couldn’t bowl a lick.” She loved dancing and listening to music. Carolyn also enjoyed singing and was a member of the George Smith Memorial Choir, Mt. Olive Baptist Church Combined Choir, and the Emmanuel Worship Center Choir. In her spare time, she liked the quiet moments tending to her garden. An excellent cook, Carolyn’s potato salad and collard greens were legendary at family gatherings, always leaving loved ones craving more. A true fashionista, she was always impeccably dressed, exuding elegance and confidence. Known for her stern perfectionism and strict parenting, Carolyn was also caring, generous, and had a wonderful sense of humor. She cherished her family deeply and was always ready to lend a helping hand when needed. Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents, Jane and Cornelius Adkins II; her stepson, William Cobb Sr.; brothers, Cornelius Adkins III, Gary Adkins, and Leon Adkins; and sister, Jane Adkins. She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories with her devoted husband, William Lewis; her adoring daughter, Rhonda Adkins; stepdaughter, Brenda Lewis-Cuff (Dwayne Sr.); grandchildren, Chelsea Staples, William Cobb Jr., Eric Cuff (Alexis Brown), Kadijiah Sharpe, and Dwayne Cuff Jr.; three sisters, Gloria Williams (LeRoy), Mautene Adkins and Judy Adkins; brother, William Adkins Sr.; two sisters-in-law, Rev. Janie Jones and Vinndray Hearn; one brother-in-law, LeRoy Williams; best friends, Otherine Burgess, Bertha Riley, Deborah Conway and Ruth Giles; as well as a host of other relatives, family, and friends who will miss her dearly. Carolyn’s love, beautiful smile, and unwavering presence will forever be remembered by those who were blessed to know her. May she rest in peace.

Tributes

Carolyn Adkins Lewis

August 20, 1948 - February 19, 2025