Henry Adkins

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An Honorable Man

Beloved father and grandfather, Henry L. Adkins, 98, of St. Louis, MO passed away peacefully on June 26, 2020, in Chesterfield, MO.

The oldest of three brothers, Henry was born on December 15, 1921, in Portland, Arkansas to mother Annie Mae Toler. Known fondly to some as “Hank”, Henry’s life would be defined by his upstanding character, his entrepreneurial spirit and an enduring love of God, his family, jazz music, and the St. Louis Cardinals.

Following his youth spent in Portland, where he was raised by “Aunt Matt”, Henry enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corp as a military policeman on September 8, 1942 – guided by an unwavering sense of duty. After three years of service, he was honorably discharged from the Air Corp. on October 12, 1945.

Seeking new opportunity, Henry moved to St. Louis, MO in 1946, where he would meet wife and lifelong love, Louise Mayweather and begin his life anew.  In June of 1952, he began work for the Defense Mapping Agency, where he received numerous commendations and recognitions.

During this time, he also began a foray into entrepreneurship, opening a neighborhood confectionary with wife, Louise. He would then go on to become a partner in the family-owned Ace Security Company in 1979, before settling into “retirement” as a security services provider for the Vagabonds Men’s Club in downtown St. Louis.

As loving father to Melba (known to most as Jeannie) and Reggie, Henry raised his family in his image of grace, dignity and unconditional love. This dedication also extended to his love of God – the centerpiece of Henry’s life. He would spend a lifetime serving his church community, first as the church clerk of Olivette Baptist Church and later as respected elder at First Baptist Church of Chesterfield.

He is forever remembered by his wife of 72 years, Louise Adkins; brother Arthur Laws; children, Melba Hale and Reginald Adkins;  Daughter-in-law Ruby Adkins; grandchildren Megan (Hale) Giampapa, Lauren Hale, Lawrence Hale, Reginald J Adkins and Devin Adkins; great grandchildren Sakura, Kai, Henry and Luca; as well as numerous other family members, church associates and friends. Henry was preceded in death by his brother Roy Toler.

Henry will lie in state on Monday, July 6th at Wade Funeral Home, from 2:00-5:00 pm.  A virtual memorial service will be also held on July 7 ^th at 10:00 AM, followed by a private graveside service for immediate family at Jefferson Barracks.

In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to Mathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club , 4245 North Kingshighway Blvd., Saint Louis, MO 63115.