Marva Leona Adkinson

Marva Leona Adkinson, affectionately known as "Leona" age 84, of Mounds, IL, transitioned on October 22, 2025, at home surrounded by her loving family. She was born on July 30, 1941, in Ullin, Illinois, to the late Clyde and Arlene Mackins.

Marva attended Douglas School, where she began forming the lifelong friendships and values that shaped her caring and determined spirit. On July 29, 1960, Marva was united in marriage to James E. Adkinson, and together their life centered on love, faith, and family. Their marriage was filled with laughter and strength, lasting until his passing. She was a member of St. John Missionary Baptist Church in Pulaski, IL, and accepted Christ at an early age.

Marva was a hardworking and dedicated woman throughout her life. She was employed by Burkart Manufacturing in Cairo, IL; worked as a teacher's aide in the Meridian School District; and was employed at St. Therese Medical Center and Great Lakes Naval Base in Waukegan, IL, among other positions where she took pride in helping others. Her compassion, patience, and strong work ethic left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered.

Marva loved spending time with her family, especially her children and grandchildren. She was a cherished aunt to many, always bringing warmth, laughter, and love into the lives of those around her. She was known for her kindness, nurturing heart, and unwavering faith. She often shared her "signature" that brought smiles and laughter (if you know, you know). As her time here is completed, we celebrate a life well lived. As we say, Mom–Granny, job well done. She was truly one of a kind and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James E. Adkinson Sr.; parents, Clyde and Arlene Mackins; her daughter, Regina Mackins; her son, James E. Adkinson Jr.; her granddaughters, Abria Mackins, Micah Ledbetter, and Justasia Pratt; her grandson, Jaquavion Mackins; her sisters, Evelyn Moore, Lois Mack, Joan Grant, Eunice McClung, and Ethel Trice; her brothers, Marvin McBride and Clyde Mackins; five brothers-in-law and three sisters-in-law; and several special nieces and nephews.

She is survived by her children: Doris Currie, Lolita Adkinson, Terence (Jacqueline) Adkinson, Takara Martin, and Jerri Adkinson; her sister, Maedell Smith; one sister-in-law, Ernestine Mackins; two brothers-in-law, Formen and Richard; 33 grandchildren; 73 great-grandchildren; and 11 great-great-grandchildren, who were all the pride and joy of her life. She is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews, family, and friends.

Farewell, Leona. Your love, laughter, and light will remain in our hearts forever.
"It's never good-bye, but always see you later!"

Service for Marva "Leona" Adkinson will take place on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 1:00 P.M. at the Meridian High School Gymnasium in Mounds, IL 62964. Visitation is scheduled to begin at 11:00 A.M. and continue until the funeral hour at 1:00 P.M. The funeral service will begin at 1:00 P.M. with Apostle Dr. Larry T. Barnett Sr. officiating.

The Earthly Place of Rest for Marva "Leona" Adkinson will be in Ullin Westside Cemetery in Ullin, IL, following the funeral service.

Professional Service & Care Entrusted To: Massie Funeral Home-Mounds, IL 62964. Online Condolences may be left at WWW.MASSIEFUNERALHOME.COM

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