Barbara Adkins

Barbara Adkins, age 79, of Knoxville, passed away on March 8, 2026, after a brave battle with lung cancer. Born in Niagara Falls, New York, on April 23, 1946, she moved with her family to Knoxville shortly afterward and was raised there. A graduate of Fulton High School’s class of 1964, she married Danny Adkins, the love of her life, on July 21, 1977. Together they shared 48 happy years, many of which she spent helping manage his periodontal practice in Knoxville.

Barbara adored her husband and family above all else. She found great joy in attending University of Tennessee ballgames, traveling with Danny and their friends, preparing beautiful meals for her loved ones, and creating countless cherished memories during their many visits to Hilton Head. Known for her generous, thoughtful, and kind nature, she brightened every day with her beautiful smile. To those who knew her, she was a true jewel.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Carol Clevenger. Barbara is survived by her beloved husband, Danny Adkins; her son, Stephen Adkins (Hesper); her daughters, Shannon Sadler (Randy), Amy Farm (Chris), and Beth Morgan; and her grandchildren, John Sadler, Samuel Sadler, Emily Sadler, Claire Weaver (Nathan), Anna Sadler, Katie Farm, Emily Farm, Elaina Farm, Bella Roark, Emaline Roark, and Rose Roark. She will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her.