Kenneth "Kenny" D. Adkins

Adkins, Kenneth Dale “Kenny” age 63, passed away peacefully at his residence on August 4, 2021 surrounded by his loving family.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Ruth (Billups) Adkins.  He is survived by his brothers Donald and Keith Adkins of Tipp City, Jerry (Kathy) Adkins of Troy, OH, and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

 Kenny was born on June 8, 1958 in Troy, OH.  Being born with Down Syndrome, the doctors at the time said he wouldn’t live past age seven or eight.  But Kenny, with his trademark stubbornness and never-in-a-hurry-to-do-anything demeanor, proved them all wrong by living a long and full life. 

 Kenny attended Riverside School in Troy until he was eighteen, when he transitioned to the adult workshop on Foss Way.  He loved going to school and work, and would be very upset if they closed due to bad weather.  During his teen years, Kenny was a multi-medal winning swimmer with the Special Olympics.  He loved the water and enjoyed spending his youthful summer days at the Tipp City public pool.

 After the death of his loving parents, Kenny’s oldest brother, Donald, moved in and took care of him.  Kenny loved watching TV and everyone knew not to change the station from Channel 7.  It was the only channel that he would watch.  In his younger years, Kenny loved to throw his 8-track player into the basket of his three-wheeled bike and ride to visit his grandparents, Johnie and Edna Adkins, Uncle Jack and Aunt Eldean Adkins, and brothers Donald and Keith who all lived around the corner.  When riding his bike became too difficult, he made the trip by walking, always stopping by Keith’s, Jack and Eldean’s, and Dale and Betty’s for a Pepsi.  He especially looked forward to Eldean making him lunch during his visit.  Kenny loved dancing to country music, and spent many happy Saturday nights at the Tipp City American Legion kicking up his heels to sound of the live band.   Kenny loved Christmas and getting presents, but even more than Christmas, he loved his birthday.  He looked forward to having his friends and family join him for his birthday celebration and relished being the center of attention. Kenny also enjoyed spending time at the family vacation farmhouse in Little Leatherwood, Kentucky.

The characteristics people will remember most about Kenny are the kindness and politeness that he showed to everyone and the huge contagious smile that would appear on his face whenever he greeted friends and family.

Visitation will be held 4:00-7:00 PM Sunday August 8, 2021 at FRINGS AND BAYLIFF FUNERAL HOME, 327 W. Main St., Tipp City, OH 45371. Funeral service 10:30 AM, Monday, August 9, 2021 at the funeral home; Pastor Bonita Ritchie officiating.  Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, Tipp City.  Donations made be made in loving memory of Kenny to Bella Care Hospice; 110 Polaris Parkway, Suite 302, Westerville, OH 43082 or online at www.celebratelife-foundation.net