Col. Walter R. Adkins
Published 11:15 am Monday, December 5, 2011
Col. Walter R. Adkins
Montevallo
Col. Walter R. Adkins, age 90, of Montevallo died at home Dec. 4, 2011. Col. Adkins retired from the United States Army in 1975, after 30 years of service to our country. He graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1945 and served in World War II, Korean Conflict and Vietnam Conflict. He was a member of the Special Forces and received numerous medals and recognition including the Soldier’s Medal, Bronze Star Medals, Air Medals, Gallantry Cross with Gold Star and Legion of Merit.
Col. Adkins received his bachelor’s degree from the United States Military Academy and his doctorate in political science from the University of Alabama. He was an avid reader and lifelong learner. He authored two historical fiction novels and was working on his third at the time of his death. He was a dedicated member of Rotary, the Cattleman’s Association and Montevallo United Methodist Church.
Walker was predeceased by his wife, Jacquelyn Boyette Adkins, and his parents, Walter and Clara Adkins. He is survived by his brother, Sam D. Adkins; nieces, Delores McCreery and Sammie Cockrell (Bill); great-niece and caregiver during his last months, Kathy Hudspeth (James); great-niece, Sarah Wheaton (Evan); great-nephews, Scott McCreery, John Cockrell (Jordan), David Cockrell and Steven Cockrell; great-great nieces, Lela Wheaton and Fiona Hudspeth; and many friends.
Visitation will be held at Rockco Funeral Home, Montevallo, Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2011 from 6-8 p.m. Funeral services will be Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2011 at 1 p.m. at Montevallo First United Methodist Church with Dr. Brian Wyatt officiating. Interment at Alabama National Cemetery, Montevallo, at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Montevallo First United Methodist Church, 861 Middle Street, Montevallo, AL 35115; Marion Military Institute, 1101 Washington St., Marion, AL 36756; or University of Alabama Office of Advancement Services, P.O. Box 870101, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487. Rockco Funeral Home, Montevallo directing. Please share condolences online at Rockcofuneralhomes.com.