Jean W. Adkins

Life’s Legacy Jean W. Adkins, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, coach, and mentor, was born on January 24, 1951, in Richmond, VA, to the late Fred and Dr. Rosella Wooldridge. Her educational and athletic journey began at Henrico County Public Schools and continued to her matriculation at Virginia Commonwealth and Virginia Union Universities. At a young age, Jean became a dedicated member of the Church of God Tabernacle of Christ. Later in life, she embraced membership at Temple Beth Sheen. In 1971, Jean married Carl Adkins. Theirs was an infectious love that touched and moved any and everyone honored to be in their presence. Jean and Carl were companions, partners-in-crime, confidantes, and the loves of each other’s lives. They were blessed with more than 50 years of marriage and friendship. Known affectionately as ‘Coach Adkins,’ Jean coached basketball from 1987 until 2011; she also coached volleyball and softball, all at Henrico High School. Jean’s passion for youth and their development was evident in her tireless work with the Blue Angels basketball program. Through tutoring, scholarships, summer camps, and various academic and recreational activities, Jean provided disadvantaged youth with the mentorship and attention they so desperately needed. Her commitment to the community extended beyond sports; she was a passionate activist and community leader, dedicating her life to giving unselfishly to others. Jean’s professional career spanned more than 35 years at Verizon (formerly C&P Telephone Company), where she retired after a long and distinguished tenure. Jean W. Adkins was called home to be with our Lord on May 16, 2024, in Richmond, VA. Jean was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Fred Wooldridge, Jr., with whom she was close until his death on February 6, 2024. Jean leaves to cherish her memory her loving husband, Carl Adkins; their three daughters: Tracey Adkins of Fort Wayne, IN; Chantel Day (Dr. Pepper Day) of Port Orange, FL; and Kartera Adkins; grandsons: Kelonjee, Jaelen, Ty’Ron, and Jordan Adkins; granddaughters: Autumn Adkins-Sapp and Sage Day; great-grandson, Kyrie Adkins; and her siblings, L’Retta McCullough and Dr. Vernon Wooldridge. Additionally, Jean will be remembered fondly by her best friends, Johnna Jackson and Gwen Gordon; godchildren: Natasha Starks and Supreme Richardson; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members, and friends. To know Jean was to love her. She had a big, beautiful personality that matched her big, beautiful heart. Jean loved her family, cherishing her grandchildren above all as her most precious treasures. Jean’s memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. Her unwavering dedication to her family, her community, and her faith will continue to inspire all who were touched by her remarkable life.

Tributes

Jean W. Adkins

January 27, 1951 - May 16, 2024