Obituary

Juanita Adkins
(August 29, 1928 - October 20, 2014)

Juanita H. Adkins “Nan”, 86, born August 28, 1928 at Big Ugly, WV passed from this life on October 20, 2014 at Emogene Dolin Hospice House. She was predeceased by her parents, Bruce and Wealthy Lambert Hatfield, her husband, Thomas W. Adkins, her sister, Mildred DeHaven and infant brother Kenneth Hatfield. Juanita was a graduate of Marshall University and was a teacher in Lincoln County Schools. She began her teaching career in a one-room school, where she instructed students in grades 1-8. She was instrumental in the establishment of the Chapman Memorial Tabernacle at Harts, WV. In later years, she attended River Cities Community Church. Her Christian faith was a source of great strength and comfort throughout her life. For many years she kept a journal, preserving details of daily life and her family. She was a great storyteller and knew the history of generations of people in Lincoln County. She enjoyed gardening and grew many flowers throughout the seasons. She loved all holidays and enjoyed decorating for each one.
Juanita is survived by her daughter, Janice C. Bills, and son-in-law, Dennis W. Bills of Huntington, with whom she made her home for the last year. Additionally, she is survived by her grandchildren, Angela Freeman of Huntington, Kristi (Mike) Aulick of West Liberty, WV, and Dennis “D.E.” (Kathi) Bills of New Martinsville, WV; great-grandchildren Sophie Agrawal, Louie and Liza Aulick, Josiah, Taylor and Spencer Bills, as well as many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly. Family and friends may call at Beard Mortuary Thursday, October 23 from 6:00 – 8:00p.m.and Friday, October 24, one hour before the Celebration of Life service, which will be held at 1:00p.m.with grandson Rev. Dennis E. Bills and Dr. Howard Aulick officiating. Interment will follow at Spring Hill Cemetery. Pallbearers will be nephews Timothy DeHaven, Paul David Smith, Jason Smith and Brian Adkins, as well as great-grandsons Josiah and Taylor Bills. We would like to express our gratitude to the Oncology unit at HIMG, the Short-Stay staff at St. Mary’s, and Hospice of Huntington for their care and support of Nan and our family.