Bernard Garson Adkins

SHARPSBURG – Bernard Garson Adkins, 85, of Sharpsburg, Md., died peacefully at his home in Antietam Furnace on September 16, 2017.

He was born on January 19, 1932, Charles City County, Virginia to Elsie C. Adkins.

Bernie was a member of the United States Marine Corps enlisting on November 20, 1952 and serving six years.

He worked for the Chessie Railroad System for 37 years and then retired.

He was most proud of his Native American ancestry and was a member of the Chickahominy Tribe of Virginia. He was also fond of a Chief Tecumseh saying, “When you rise in the morning give thanks for the light, for your life, for your strength. If you see no reason to give thanks the fault lies in yourself.”

Survivors include daughter Valerie J. Linderborn and her husband, Charles, of Pasedena, Md; daughter, Bonnie R. VanOrden and her husband, Robert, of Keedysville, Md; son, Bernard G. Adkins Jr. and his wife Margaret, of Pasadena; son, Matthew N. Adkins and his wife, Karen, of Baltimore; son, and Robin R. Adkins of Sharpsburg; daughter Lisa Lindauer and her husband Tony; 22 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

Mike and Mindy Dunnigan were special friends to Bernie.

Susan Marie Churchey was also a dear friend and caregiver during Bernie’s illness.

Bernie was predeceased by his wife Barbara Jean Adkins and four children, Lawrence M. Adkins, Benita G. Sheets, Loretta L. Shortt and Donna M. Newlin.

The family will receive friends at Osborne Funeral Home, 425 S. Conococheague St., Williamsport, Md on Wednesday, September 20, 2017 from 6:00  to 8:00 pm. Chapel will also be open for visits after  9:00 am Wednesday for the convenience of family and friends..

Funeral services will be held at Osborne Funeral Home on Thursday, September 21, 2017 at 11:00 am with Pastor Ernie Witmer officiating. Burial will be in Cedar Lawn Memorial Park, Hagerstown. Full military honors will be provided by Clopper Michael American Legion Post #10 Boonsboro, MD.

Memorial donations may be made to:

John R. Marsh Cancer Center 11110 Medical Campus Rd. Hagerstown, MD 21740

          Online condolences may be made to the family at www.osbornefuneralhome.net.