Shirley Ann Adkins Counts

Shirley Ann Adkins Counts
1951-2025
"She taught not only in classrooms, but through the way she lived - with patience, compassion, and an unshakable faith in God's plan."- Unknown
Shirley Ann Adkins Counts, age 74, of Ashland, Kentucky, went home to be with her Heavenly Father, on October 25, 2025.
Shirley was born on March 26, 1951. She was the blessing of the late Emzie Albert Adkins and Nancy Pearl Adams Moore. Shirley was a 1969 graduate of Boyd County High School. She knew from a young age that she would pursue a career in education. Shirley worked hard to see that dream come true and earned her master's degree in education from Morehead State University as well as her Montessori Method Teaching Certificate. She began her teaching career in the 70's and worked for Boyd County School System her entire life. Shirley shaped the young minds and hearts across the county working at Ponderosa Elementary, Cannonsburg Elementary, Edison Elementary, and Boyd County Early Childhood Development before retiring in 2007 to spend time with her grandchildren. Shirley knew before she heard she was going to be a grandmother that her grandchildren would be her priority. As each of her three grandkids were born she packed up her things and moved to spend time as their "Nanny" for their first year. Shirley had a caring heart and a gentle nature and a soft spot for children. She knew the importance of upbringing and providing a structured life for young minds.
Although her career was important to her, Shirley also enjoyed her flowerbeds. The sun on her face and the smell of her all-pastel florals and even weeding brought her peace and comfort. Often her home was filled with the pleasant smell of baked goods. Shirley loved to bake and was well known for her coconut cream pies and fudge. Shirley's life was centered and structured on her unwavering faith. As a member of First Baptist Church Russell, she was very active in the children's ministry. She leaves behind a congregation that will miss her dearly. Shirley was also a longtime volunteer for Ramey Estep Home
The passing of Shirley leaves a void not only in the lives of her family but also in the lives of countless others she touched throughout the years. Her absence will be felt in the community. She leaves behind a legacy founded on principle, dedication, gentleness, and love. Her light will forever shine through the memories and stories that will be told for many generations to come.
Left behind to honor Shirley's memories is her devoted husband of 51 years, Rick Counts, one beloved daughter Hannah Gloria and her husband Edward of Atlanta, Georgia, three precious grandchildren Caroline Francesca, Benjamin Counts, and Evelyn Pearl, and her sisters Nancy Kelder of Amelia Island, Florida, Susan Lester and her husband Larry of Cannonsburg, Kentucky, and Carol Hiler and her husband Brian of Pawley's Island, South Carolina. Also surviving are her brothers-in-law Richard McCall and Bill Compton, and many extended family members and friends.
In addition to her late parents, Shirley is enjoying a Heavenly Reunion with one sister, Ruth McCall.
A Funeral service to honor the life of Shirley will be held on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, beginning at 12pm at First Baptist Church Russell, with Pastor Ken Gowin officiating. Visitation for friends and family will be held at the church on Monday, October 27, 2025, from 6pm to 8pm.
Online condolences may be sent to the family from our website at kilgorecollierfuneralhome.com or on Facebook at Neal-Kilgore & Collier Funeral Home.
Neal-Kilgore & Collier Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family of Shirley Ann Adkins Counts.