Celebrating the life of
John F. Adkins, Jr.
April 23, 1942 - November 12, 2016
Retired Vice President St. Joseph/Candler
John Frank Adkins, Jr., age 74, died peacefully after a long illness on November 12, 2016. Born on April 23, 1942 and raised in Savannah, John was the son of the late Billie Nelson Adkins and John Frank Adkins, Sr. He attended Chatham County Public Schools and was a 1960 graduate of Herschel V. Jenkins High School. Upon graduation, John entered the military, serving in the United States Army as both a fixed wing and rotary wing pilot. He earned the designation of Aviation Safety Officer from the Institute for Aerospace Safety from the University of Southern California and held the designation of expert marksman. He was honorably discharged after eight years of service, earning the rank of Captain. John graduated from Armstrong State College and went on to earn a Master of Science from the University of South Carolina. He spent the remainder of his career working in healthcare, implementing information systems in three major health systems; returning to Savannah and retiring from St. Joseph’s/Candler in 2008 after serving as Vice President, Chief Information Officer for 20 years.
John will be remembered for being a gentle, kind and fair man with a wit and sense of humor that was known to all. He had a large heart for people and animals. John was a quiet leader who never asked anyone to do anything he would not do himself. He was fascinated with the way technology transformed our world and had a passion for all things aviation. He maintained his pilot’s license after his service in the Army and added soaring to his flying accomplishments. The iconic sound of a DeHavilland Beaver engine, the smell of the salt marsh on breezy, sun-filled days and watching contrails in the sky warmed his soul until the very end.
John was an avid researcher on any topic that interested him. He loved sports and particularly enjoyed tennis, fishing, camping, and kayaking. He was an exceptional craftsman, spending the last years of his life fulfilling his dream to build a boat by hand. John loved his God, country and family and we will miss this gentle soul for the rest of our days.
Preceded in death by his parents and brother, Louis Adkins. John is survived by his loving and devoted wife Palma Adkins; his cherished daughters Suzanne Adkins Grothe and husband Alan; Nancy Diane Adkins; Tracy Adkins Brown and husband Gary; Sarah Adkins Thorpe and husband Brian, beloved siblings JoAnn Adkins Harpe and husband Bobby; Leigh (Bucky) Adkins and wife Judy; sister-in-law Mary Adkins Harvey and husband Dennis; his adored grandchildren Courtney, Lynsey, Claire, Emma, Maisie, John, Maddy, Christian, Sam; his great grandchildren Austin and Layla; nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends.
The family deeply appreciates the loving care shown to John by his caregivers Carrie Russell-Gaines, Michelle Gardner, Ebony Givens and the entire staff of Spanish Oaks Hospice.
A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, December 3, 2016 at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Alzheimer’s Association (http://alz.org), Spanish Oaks Hospice or the charity of your choice.
To Mr. John Adkins' Family, Please accept my condolences in the loss of Mr. Adkins; I am writing on behalf of my husband, Mark Kit Lucas, who worked with John at SJ/CHS. He wanted you to know that John was "one of the best bosses he ever had," and that John was instrumental in pushing him to complete his college education! John will be greatly missed by many. Our prayers for God's comfort and strength are with you during this time of sorrow. In Christ's Love, Mark Lucas (by Linda Lucas)
- Mark and Linda Lucas, Pooler, GA
To all the family: I am deeply sorry for the loss of your loved one. I first met John in 1996. I was working at St. Joseph's/Candler (Candler site), when the hospitals merged and the IS department came over to the Candler location. He was a wonderful, kind, soft-spoken man, and I loved his dry wit. Not only was he my boss, but my friend. May you find peace and comfort in knowing that he is no longer in pain, and with the Lord Jesus.
- Gloria Register, Lyons, Ga
John was such a sensitive and kind man. It is no wonder that his favorite animals when traveling in Africa several years ago were the giraffes. These tall, majestic animals would appear in small groups as we rode through the countryside. Calm but diligently aware of their surroundings. John loved being with his wife, Palma, and his family--ever protective, caring and always the gentleman. May he Rest In Peace.
- Suzanne Bacon, Boston, MA
Our sincere condolences to Palma and the Adkins family. John has been a dear friend since 1971 in work and in play. He was a great man and wonderful person to be with. John will be forever in our hearts and minds.
- Madison & Debra Mock, Ellabell, GA
Hold on to your memories, but let God hold your hand (Isaiah 41:10). So sorry to hear of your loss.
- Johnsons, Florida,
Sorry to hear John has passed away. I had a few occasions to meet with John before and after his retirement and I always felt I was in the presence of a thoughtful, intelligent leader. I have personally & professionally benefited from his leadership as VP/CIO for SJ/C. He will be missed. Sincerely, Nolan
- Nolan Hennessee, Bloomingdale, GA
I met John in High School at Jenkins. We were in the same class. We did not meet again after graduation until we both worked at Memorial Medical Center. He and I worked on a new computer system installation team. He was a fine gentleman, very knowledgeable and always friendly. I am so sorry to learn of his death and want to pass my condolences along to his family. Very sincerely, Jean Hinchcliffe McRae
- Jean H. McRae, Savannah, GA
Please accept my deepest sympathy. Love you Palma. You are in my daily prayers.
- Stephanie Alston, Savannah, ga
Though I didn't get to enjoy time with John. I did spend time with Palma. While living in Boston, I got to know Palma very well as a friend. Palma is a great judge of character with a lovely warm heart and is very loyal... For this reason I know that John was a spectacular person, because Palma and he found happiness together. My thoughts and prayers are with Palma and the rest of family and friends that loved and respected John.
- Marlon Major, Dublin, IRL
John was truly a kind and gentle man. I have known him since my early days at Memorial and caught up with him again when I moved to St. Joseph's/Candler. I always teased him about looking like Paul McCartney. He was a humble man that every one looked up to. He will be truly missed. I am so sad that he is gone.
- Lynda Meyers (Long), Savannah, Ga
So sad to learn of John's passing. I have only the fondest memories of visiting with Aunt Billie and her children as I was growing up. John visited my Mama (Jackie Martin) several months before her passing and she spoke about it so often. He was a quiet and kind man and dearly loved family. I pray you all find comfort in each others company and sharing your many memories. Love and Hugs to all. Paula
- Paula Martin Lewis, North Myrtle Beach, SC
John and I were U S Army Flight School classmates at Ft Rucker, Alabama in 1963 and 1964. After a full military career I retired to Skidaway Island and was startled and delighted to encounter John on the Tennis court. We were rotating opponents and before a new set came to the net where both John and I looked at each other and said "I know you - were you ever at Ft Rucker Al". And so it developed that in early 1998 we renewed our 35 year old friendship from flight school. We became frequent tennis partners and team mates and social friends again as well. A wonderful mild mannered man, he was always a joy to be with. His family members all know of his delight in discussing old Army pilot tales and John and I did the same. Our deepest condolences to the family on the passing of my dear Comrade in Arms. He is now peaceful and with the Lord.
- Jerry Hipp, Savannah, GA
Suzanne,Nancy,Tracy,Sarah and family I am sorry to hear of your dads passing. I will always remember John and my Hugh,III sitting and talking on several occasions of his flying the helicopters and such pride he took in talking about his flying missions. Hugh was quite a history buff and he loved hearing and just listening to someone that had been there and done that. John was always a kind and considerate friend to us. He will be missed. Again I am very sorry for your loss. Aunt Bobbie
- Bobbie Jackson, Guyton, GA
So sorry for your loss. Even if expected it is never easy. We are thinking of you and ask that you let us know if there is anything we can do.
- Barbara Powers and Kris Brenard, Savannah, Ga
My condolences to the Adkins Family on the passing of your loved one John. Please find in our Lord and Savior's promise at John 5:28
- , Lawrenceville , GA
Our family extends our love and sympathy to you all...John was such a part of all of our lives and we will remember him as our friend always. We wish God's blessings. May He wrap his loving arms around each of you. Love you all, Aunt Susan and Uncle Danny
- The Kaiser Family, Statesboro, Ga
Very sorry to hear of your loss. May Gods (Psalm 83:18) promise to reunite us with our loved ones bring you comfort. John 5:28,29. Psalm 37:29
- Nicky, Portsmouth,
Dear Suzanne, Nancy, Tracy, Sarah, and family, The memories I have of your dad are many and some of the most special of times. I best remember him taking us out on the boat, having the patience to teach me to ski, and always having a twinkle in his eye. I know that he has been your rock and your beloved dad and I understand the loss that you feel. May you and Palma and your whole family know that my heart and prayers are with you. May he finally rest in wholeness and peace. I know he was welcomed with open arms by our God of love and grace. May God's peace surround you all through this difficult time.
- Susan Norris Carter, Windermere, FL
Our hearts are saddened at the loss of John. We knew him through our circle of friends in the Causton Bluff neighborhood. John was a bright light when he first moved into the neighborhood as he took so much pride in the building of his boat. My first recollection of him was him working in the garage on the boat and how excited he was about the project. Our prayers go out to his children and Palma and other family members during this difficult time. John is in God's hands now, a truly glorious place to be. Rest peacefully friend. Jim and Marion Leith, 5 St Augustine Bend.
- Marion and Jim Leith, Savannah, GA
To Mr. John Adkins' Family, Please accept my condolences in the loss of Mr. Adkins; I am writing on behalf of my husband, Mark Kit Lucas, who worked with John at SJ/CHS. He wanted you to know that John was "one of the best bosses he ever had," and that John was instrumental in pushing him to complete his college education! John will be greatly missed by many. Our prayers for God's comfort and strength are with you during this time of sorrow. In Christ's Love, Mark Lucas (by Linda Lucas)
- Mark and Linda Lucas, Pooler, GA
To all the family: I am deeply sorry for the loss of your loved one. I first met John in 1996. I was working at St. Joseph's/Candler (Candler site), when the hospitals merged and the IS department came over to the Candler location. He was a wonderful, kind, soft-spoken man, and I loved his dry wit. Not only was he my boss, but my friend. May you find peace and comfort in knowing that he is no longer in pain, and with the Lord Jesus.
- Gloria Register, Lyons, Ga
John was such a sensitive and kind man. It is no wonder that his favorite animals when traveling in Africa several years ago were the giraffes. These tall, majestic animals would appear in small groups as we rode through the countryside. Calm but diligently aware of their surroundings. John loved being with his wife, Palma, and his family--ever protective, caring and always the gentleman. May he Rest In Peace.
- Suzanne Bacon, Boston, MA
Our sincere condolences to Palma and the Adkins family. John has been a dear friend since 1971 in work and in play. He was a great man and wonderful person to be with. John will be forever in our hearts and minds.
- Madison & Debra Mock, Ellabell, GA
Hold on to your memories, but let God hold your hand (Isaiah 41:10). So sorry to hear of your loss.
- Johnsons, Florida,
Sorry to hear John has passed away. I had a few occasions to meet with John before and after his retirement and I always felt I was in the presence of a thoughtful, intelligent leader. I have personally & professionally benefited from his leadership as VP/CIO for SJ/C. He will be missed. Sincerely, Nolan
- Nolan Hennessee, Bloomingdale, GA
I met John in High School at Jenkins. We were in the same class. We did not meet again after graduation until we both worked at Memorial Medical Center. He and I worked on a new computer system installation team. He was a fine gentleman, very knowledgeable and always friendly. I am so sorry to learn of his death and want to pass my condolences along to his family. Very sincerely, Jean Hinchcliffe McRae
- Jean H. McRae, Savannah, GA
Please accept my deepest sympathy. Love you Palma. You are in my daily prayers.
- Stephanie Alston, Savannah, ga
Though I didn't get to enjoy time with John. I did spend time with Palma. While living in Boston, I got to know Palma very well as a friend. Palma is a great judge of character with a lovely warm heart and is very loyal... For this reason I know that John was a spectacular person, because Palma and he found happiness together. My thoughts and prayers are with Palma and the rest of family and friends that loved and respected John.
- Marlon Major, Dublin, IRL
John was truly a kind and gentle man. I have known him since my early days at Memorial and caught up with him again when I moved to St. Joseph's/Candler. I always teased him about looking like Paul McCartney. He was a humble man that every one looked up to. He will be truly missed. I am so sad that he is gone.
- Lynda Meyers (Long), Savannah, Ga
So sad to learn of John's passing. I have only the fondest memories of visiting with Aunt Billie and her children as I was growing up. John visited my Mama (Jackie Martin) several months before her passing and she spoke about it so often. He was a quiet and kind man and dearly loved family. I pray you all find comfort in each others company and sharing your many memories. Love and Hugs to all. Paula
- Paula Martin Lewis, North Myrtle Beach, SC
John and I were U S Army Flight School classmates at Ft Rucker, Alabama in 1963 and 1964. After a full military career I retired to Skidaway Island and was startled and delighted to encounter John on the Tennis court. We were rotating opponents and before a new set came to the net where both John and I looked at each other and said "I know you - were you ever at Ft Rucker Al". And so it developed that in early 1998 we renewed our 35 year old friendship from flight school. We became frequent tennis partners and team mates and social friends again as well. A wonderful mild mannered man, he was always a joy to be with. His family members all know of his delight in discussing old Army pilot tales and John and I did the same. Our deepest condolences to the family on the passing of my dear Comrade in Arms. He is now peaceful and with the Lord.
- Jerry Hipp, Savannah, GA
Suzanne,Nancy,Tracy,Sarah and family I am sorry to hear of your dads passing. I will always remember John and my Hugh,III sitting and talking on several occasions of his flying the helicopters and such pride he took in talking about his flying missions. Hugh was quite a history buff and he loved hearing and just listening to someone that had been there and done that. John was always a kind and considerate friend to us. He will be missed. Again I am very sorry for your loss. Aunt Bobbie
- Bobbie Jackson, Guyton, GA
So sorry for your loss. Even if expected it is never easy. We are thinking of you and ask that you let us know if there is anything we can do.
- Barbara Powers and Kris Brenard, Savannah, Ga
My condolences to the Adkins Family on the passing of your loved one John. Please find in our Lord and Savior's promise at John 5:28
- , Lawrenceville , GA
Our family extends our love and sympathy to you all...John was such a part of all of our lives and we will remember him as our friend always. We wish God's blessings. May He wrap his loving arms around each of you. Love you all, Aunt Susan and Uncle Danny
- The Kaiser Family, Statesboro, Ga
Very sorry to hear of your loss. May Gods (Psalm 83:18) promise to reunite us with our loved ones bring you comfort. John 5:28,29. Psalm 37:29
- Nicky, Portsmouth,
Dear Suzanne, Nancy, Tracy, Sarah, and family, The memories I have of your dad are many and some of the most special of times. I best remember him taking us out on the boat, having the patience to teach me to ski, and always having a twinkle in his eye. I know that he has been your rock and your beloved dad and I understand the loss that you feel. May you and Palma and your whole family know that my heart and prayers are with you. May he finally rest in wholeness and peace. I know he was welcomed with open arms by our God of love and grace. May God's peace surround you all through this difficult time.
- Susan Norris Carter, Windermere, FL
Our hearts are saddened at the loss of John. We knew him through our circle of friends in the Causton Bluff neighborhood. John was a bright light when he first moved into the neighborhood as he took so much pride in the building of his boat. My first recollection of him was him working in the garage on the boat and how excited he was about the project. Our prayers go out to his children and Palma and other family members during this difficult time. John is in God's hands now, a truly glorious place to be. Rest peacefully friend. Jim and Marion Leith, 5 St Augustine Bend.
- Marion and Jim Leith, Savannah, GA
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
