Barbara Joan (Jenkins) Adkins

Barbara Joan (Jenkins) Adkins passed away on September 22, 2026. She was born on July 28, 1944, in Worthington, Ohio, the daughter of the late Early and Gladith (Chapman) Jenkins.

Barbara attended Worthington High School before beginning the chapter of her life that meant the most to her—marrying the love of her life, John Calvary Adkins, and together building a beautiful family. To her children she was Mom, to the generations that followed she was lovingly Granny and Nana, and to so many others who loved her, she was simply “Aunt B” or “Aunt Barbie.” No matter the name they called her, each represented a special place she held in the lives and hearts of those she loved. Barbara had a warm and loving presence that made family and friends feel special and welcomed.

Barbara knew how to enjoy life. She loved shopping, traveling, trips to the casino, country music, and, of course, Elvis Presley. But nothing brought her greater happiness than being surrounded by her family. They truly were her whole world, and she was incredibly proud of the family and legacy she and John created together.

Some of Barbara’s most treasured memories were found in the simple moments she shared with John. She developed a love for fishing because it meant spending time beside the man she loved. The two also enjoyed taking long drives together, setting out to see lakes, beautiful scenery, or simply wherever the road might lead them. Their trips often began with a cup of coffee and ended with a stop for ice cream—a simple tradition that became part of the beautiful life they shared.

Barbara’s greatest legacy can be seen in the generations of family she leaves behind. She is survived by her children, Judith (Tim) Sheehy and John (Traci Murphy) Adkins; grandchildren, Jennifer (Sam) Petee, Jason (Regina) Sheehy, and Eric (Angela) Ransburgh; great-grandchildren, Jacob (Jordyn) Petee, Allison Petee, Marli Ransburgh, Aiden Ransburgh, Nathan Ransburgh, and Evelyn Ransburgh; and great-great-grandchildren, Kinsley and Braxton Petee. She also leaves behind her best friend of more than 64 years, Clara Cain, along with many other beloved relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, John; her siblings, Virginia, Clara, Woody, Jim, Phyllis, Ivaliegh, and Jr.; two infant siblings; and many dear friends who touched her life throughout the years.

Barbara’s life was one built around love—love for John, love for her family, and love for the countless memories they created together. From fishing trips and scenic drives to coffee, ice cream, music, laughter, and family gatherings, it was the people beside her who made life meaningful. Her family will carry those memories forward and continue the legacy she was so very proud to call her own.

Barbara’s family invites friends to gather and celebrate her life at Lynch Family Funeral Home, 124 East High Street, London, Ohio 43140, on Friday, October 2, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. A funeral service will begin at 12:00 p.m., with interment to follow at Plumwood Cemetery.