Gwendolyn "Gwen" Alice Adkins

On Wednesday, August 5, 2026, Gwendolyn Alice Adkins, affectionately known to her family and friends as "Gwen," was called home to be with her Lord and Savior at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. Born on February 15, 1952, in Franklin County, Virginia, she was the beloved daughter of the late Andrew W. Adkins and Alice Saunders Adkins. Gwen was preceded in death by her devoted parents; her beloved sister, Wanda Faye Adkins; and her cherished daughter, Allyson Antoinette Adkins. Throughout her life, Gwen exemplified faith, wisdom, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. Her life was a beautiful reflection of God's grace, and her legacy will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know and love her.

A woman of deep Christian faith, Gwen accepted Christ at an early age and remained a faithful member of Morningside Missionary Baptist Church throughout her life. She served her church family with humility and dedication, sharing her time, talents, and love wherever she was needed. Whether through worship, ministry, or quiet acts of kindness, she demonstrated the love of Christ and became a source of encouragement, strength, and inspiration to all whose lives she touched.

Education was both Gwen's passion and her life's calling. After graduating from high school, she continued her academic journey at Ferrum College before earning advanced degrees from East Tennessee State University and the University of Virginia. Her pursuit of excellence prepared her for a distinguished career spanning more than four decades with Franklin County Public Schools. Serving as a teacher, administrator, and ultimately Director of Pupil Personnel Services, Gwen became a tireless advocate for children, particularly those with special educational needs. Her leadership, wisdom, and compassionate spirit left an enduring mark on countless students, educators, and families.

Although she achieved many professional accomplishments, Gwen's greatest treasures were the people she loved. She found immense joy in gathering with family and friends, where her warm smile, infectious laughter, and heartfelt conversations created lasting memories for everyone around her.

Those left to cherish her memory are four brothers, Retired U.S. Army Colonel Ronald (JoAnne) Adkins of Fairfax Station, Virginia; Retired U.S. Air Force Major Carrington (Nancy) Adkins of Fredericksburg, Virginia; Mr. William Adkins of Rocky Mount, Virginia; and Mr. John (Felsia) Adkins of Rocky Mount, Virginia; and a host of loving and supportive nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends.

Funeral services will be conducted from Faith Fellowship Church 12 noon Saturday, August 15, 2026. Interment will follow in the Adkins Family Cemetery (Cassell Drive). Her family will receive friends 3-7 p.m. Friday, August 14, 2026 at Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.

Gwen Adkins Memorial Fund - to meet children's basic needs 

(Mailing address below or click here)

Benjamin Franklin Middle School

c/o Gwen Adkins Memorial Fund

225 Middle School Road

Rocky Mount, VA 24151