Larry Joe Adkins

Martinsville bids a fond farewell to Larry Joe Adkins, 89, a beloved husband, dad, and grandpa, who entered eternal rest on Friday, October 24th, 2025, at The Waters of Martinsville with loved ones by his side. A lifelong resident, Larry was born in Martinsville on November 9th, 1935, to the late Daniel Robert and Margaret (Payne) Adkins. He was one of five children and a proud Martinsville High School graduate, Class of 1954. Following high school, Larry served his country for a short time in the Indiana National Guard, before being honorably discharged due to medical reasons. In 1956, he married the love of his life, Norma Jean (Mansfield) Adkins, and together they built a beautiful family and a life full of shared memories. Larry worked for Eli Lilly for 37 years and retired as a Group Supervisor in 1994. Larry was a true pillar of his community, leaving a legacy of kindness, humor, and endless generosity. He was a member of Liberty Christian Church, where he was baptized, and was also a member of the American Legion Post #230 and the Elks Lodge #1349.For over 30 years, his dedication to helping others extended to a remarkable record of blood donations to American Red Cross. He enjoyed delivering Meals on Wheels and the simple pleasure of sharing breakfast and conversation with friends on Saturday mornings at McDonald's. A true handyman, Larry had a reputation for always being willing to lend a hand to family and friends. He always teased that duct tape could fix most anything. He was also a devoted fan of Indiana University basketball and was a familiar face at his children's and grandchildren's sporting events and activities. An avid Indy 500 fan, he attended over 25 races in row. Among his family's favorite stories was Larry's childhood claim to fame. In 1947, at the age of 11, he was crowned "King Bub" at the Indiana State Fair's bubblegum-blowing contest. Sporting his iconic yellow paper crown, he won $100 and a new Schwinn bicycle. The contest was never held again and Larry always claimed to be the reigning king to this day. Larry's memory will be forever cherished by his loving wife, Norma Jean; his son Tom Adkins (Lisa) of Asheville, North Carolina; his daughters Jill Doles (Dwayne) of Greenwood, Indiana, and Kathy Auge (Jon) of Red Wing, Minnesota; and his six grandchildren, Megan Lee (Corey), Adam Doles, Hailey and Maddie Adkins, and Colton and Logan Auge. His legacy will also live on through his two great-grandchildren, Roman and Bennett Lee. He was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel and Margaret; his brothers, Roger, Bill, and Nelson Adkins; and his sister, Eileen Miller. Family and friends are invited to visit on Wednesday, from 2:00–4:00 p.m., at Neal & Summers Funeral & Cremation Center in Martinsville. A service celebrating Larry's life will begin at 4:00 p.m., immediately following the visitation. His earthly remains will be cremated, and he will be laid to rest at Nebo Memorial Park Cemetery in Martinsville at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 50 E. 91st St., Suite 100, Indianapolis, IN 46240. Condolences may be shared with his family online at www.nealandsummers.com.