Jessie "Jess" J. Adkins

Mr. Jessie (Jess) James Adkins, age 88, of Sandy Hook, Kentucky passed away peacefully Saturday, January 20, 2024 at his residence on the left hand fork of Middle Fork Road surrounded by his loving family.  

Born September 20, 1935, in Roscoe, Kentucky, he was the son of the late E.J. and Effie Moore Adkins.  Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 58 years, Helen Fern Adkins; a son, David Adkins; brother Randall Adkins; and a sister, Ina “Girl” Mason.

Jess’ survivors include one son, Rocky J. (Leah) Adkins; Grandchildren, Michael David Adkins of Ashland, Jennifer Adkins of Ashland, Kristen (Josh) Salyers of Sandy Hook, Branden (Emily) Adkins of Sandy Hook, and Tori (Dalton Fields) Adkins of Ashland; Great Grandchildren, Jaxon Salyers, Abram Salyers, Jacob Adkins, Miley Grace “Tootsie” Adkins, and Mayven Rae “Trixie” Adkins; and daughter in law, Kathy Adkins; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and neighbors that will sadly mourn his passing.

Jess retired from employment with Elliott County’s Board of Education after 55 years of dedicating himself to the youth of Elliott County.  Understanding the value of education, Jess taught everything that could be taught while coaching every sport needing a coach.  For a time he also trained bus drivers for the district.  Long after retirement, he could still be found supporting Elliott’s Athletic Programs, primarily in the gymnasium.  

He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Sandy Hook and Heburn Lodge 576 of Sandy Hook.  He took great pride in his faith, family, and Kentucky sports. 

Funeral services will be conducted at 11a.m. on Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at Lewis & Ferguson Funeral Home in Sandy Hook, Ky with Brother Kyle Burnett officiating.  Burial shall follow at Elliott County Memory Gardens.  

Pallbearers include: Joe Salyers, Nick Salyers, Josh Salyers, Jaxon Salyers, Abram Salyers, Jacob Adkins, Michael David Adkins, Robbie Adkins, and Jimmy Whitt; Honorary Pallbearers include Ronald Wheeler, Robert Addington, Rick Mays, John Claude Williams, Gene Binion, Baz Brickey, Watt Eldridge, Dee Riggsby, and John Holbrook, as well as each of his past ball players, students, athletes, and his friends.

Visitation will be from 6:00p.m. till 9:00p.m. on January 22, 2024 at Lewis & Ferguson Funeral Home located at 603 N. KY 7, Sandy Hook, KY.  In lieu of gifts, please consider a donation to King's Daughters Health Foundation in memory of Jess Adkins (contact information: phone: 606-408-9332 or email laura.patrick@kdmc.kdhs.us).

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