Tommy Gerald Adkins

After his discharge from the US Navy, Tommy moved to Richmond, Virginia, where he worked for many years as a printer at Worth Higgins & Associates, and Carter Printing Company. In his retirement, he worked at Burkwood Swim & Racquet Club in Mechanicsville.

Tommy married Judy in 1987, and together they enjoyed their home, children, and grandchildren. In addition, he was an enthusiastic breeder of award-winning Boxer dogs and pigeons. Without any formal genetic education and with great success, Tommy learned how to breed his pigeons to pattern colors and characteristics that he wanted.

Another great passion that especially delighted his grandchildren was his collection of model trains and tracks. He built accompanying villages and scenery that depicted life in the West Virginia mining town he grew up in and loved.

Tommy is survived by Judy, his wife of 39 years; and two sons and their families: Wayne and his wife Lisa, and Rick and his wife Anne.

His brother Dickie and his wife Janet also survive him.

Grandchildren and great grandchildren include Jessica Bach, her husband Jeb, and children Elijah and Summer; Alex and Jenna Grace Adkins; Shawn, Tyler, and Ashley Alcock, and Ashley's children Dillon and Noah. Tommy's good friend Jim Johnson spent many hours with him when he became ill, visiting and talking about pigeons. Also, friend Forrest Malcolm shared pigeon-raising and -showing with him over the years.

Tommy was predeceased by his parents, his daughter Diane Alcock, brothers Norman and Roger, and sister Mary Sue.

In honor of Tommy's wishes, there will be no service. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled for a later time.

The family wants to thank Affinity Care of Virginia, most especially Pam and Nicole, for their compassionate care, and the Cremation Society of Richmond for their services.