Mary Elizabeth Adkins

Mary Elizabeth Adkins,46, a beloved Wife, Mother, Daughter and Sister departed this world on November 5, 2024, at the UK Hospital in Lexington, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness and unwavering faith. Born on October 25, 1978, Mary graced the lives of many for over 46 years with her infectious spirit and unwavering dedication to her Faith, family and community.

Mary’s professional journey was marked by her deep commitment to education. She devoted around 12 years to the Harlan County Board of Education, where she began as a Special Education Teachers Aide before transitioning to her role as a Kindergarten Teachers Aide. Her passion for teaching extended beyond the classroom; Mary touched the hearts of her students with gentleness and warmth. For over 20 years, she also served as a Sunday School teacher at the Dry Fork Holiness Church, as well as the Gulston Church of God from the tender age of 17, imparting wisdom and compassion to countless children and families while sharing the true love of God with them.

A true lover of music, Mary found joy in singing and often played the bass and piano at church, where her melodious voice echoed her love for her faith. Beyond her professional endeavors, she cherished her time spent with family. Often reading and studying the Word of God. Whether it was porch sitting, gardening, or enjoying the great outdoors, every moment was enriched by her presence. Mary's heart was especially drawn towards children; she loved being around them and instilled in them the values of kindness and curiosity through her nurturing ways.

Mary was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Paul and Mary Pace, paternal grandparents, Nancy and Abe Bailey Sr., Father-in-law, Lonnie Adkins Sr., and Sisters-in-law, Cindy Marlow and Tina Adkins. 

Mary leaves behind her devoted husband, Lonnie Adkins, and their two cherished children, Douglas Ryan Adkins and Alonna Elizabeth Adkins. She is survived by her loving parents, Abe and Lois Bailey, and her treasured sisters, Pam Bailey and Marcia Bailey. Mary also held a special place in her heart for her mother-in-law, Donna Adkins, along with her devoted brothers and sisters-in-law, including Angela Hoskins and husband Alex, Jenny Caldwell and husband Chad, Scott Adkins and wife Brittani, Ashley Adams and husband Brandon, Brittany Brock and husband Jason, and Travis Adkins and wife Kendra. Mary was adored by her nieces, Morgan Bailey and Addison Noe and Husband Nathan, and she took immense joy in her great nieces and nephews who were like her grandbabies—Kingston Hamlin, Jasper Hamlin, Arya Hamlin, Natalee Noe, and a baby on the way, Colton Noe. A Very Very Very Special Close Friend, Jessica Asher Morgan; A host of Nieces, Nephews, family and friends will also mourn her passing.

The community will gather to celebrate Mary’s life with a Visitation beginning on November 8, 2024, from 4:00 PM until the Funeral Hour on November 9, 2024, at 12:00 PM, both taking place at the Gulston Church of God. Camie Bo Caldwell, Little Roscoe Asher and Joey Hoskins will be officiating. Burial will follow at Pace Family Cemetery with Family and Friends serving as pallbearers.

2 Timothy 4:7-8 KJV

7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

Mount Pleasant Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Adkins.