Charles Boyd “Charlie B.” “CB” Adkins, age 91, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2026. He was born on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 1934, in Morgan County, Kentucky. Charlie lived and worked most of his adult life in Fairborn, Ohio, where he proudly retired from the City of Fairborn Water and Sewer Department after more than three decades of service.
Until his health declined, Charlie B. was an active and devoted member of Uplifted Community Church in Huber Heights, Ohio. He was also a proud member of Masonic Lodge #711 and the Scottish Rite, Valley of Dayton, organizations that reflected his commitment to faith, fellowship, and service.
Charlie B. is survived by his beloved wife, Alice Adkins; his sons Jerry (Jacqueline) Adkins and Doug Adkins; stepson James “My Bonus Boy” (Jennifer) Poole and Tom (Barbara) Jones; stepdaughters Betsy (John Horton) DeBorde, Emma (Jim) Watkins, and Mary (Allen) Moore; grandchildren Grant Adkins, Lindsay (Ryan) Bossardt, Jennifer (Dominic) DeVasto, Jimmy (Chelsea) Poole, Jonah (Tommie) Poole, Jacob (Olivia Villies) Poole, Billy (Jessica) Whitt, Donnie Whitt Jr., Sam Ballard, Jessie (Jennifer) Ballard, Leann (Chad) Duncan, Lisa Moore, Donna (Raben) Hicks, Branden (Ashley) Jones, and Brittney (Jayson) Wallace; and his sister, Julia Brown.
He was also blessed with many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, all of whom he adored. In addition, Charlie B. was deeply loved by many across several blended families, including children, stepchildren, grandchildren, and extended relatives — all touched by a life that brought people together through love, resilience, and shared history.
Charlie B. was preceded in death by his loving wife of 35 years, Helen Adkins; his stepsons Claude Poole Jr. and Donald Jones; stepdaughter Linda Poole; brothers Clint Adkins and “Twin Brother” Sherman Adkins; and sisters Geneva Barker, Marie Adkins, Roberta Coffee, and Bonnie Davidson.
Charlie B. was known as a hard worker. He never met a stranger and would help anyone in need without hesitation. One of his favorite pleasures was convincing anyone — most often his grandchildren — to give him a good shoulder rub, usually in exchange for a dollar and a smile. His sense of humor and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
He dedicated more than 34 years of service to the City of Fairborn. Alongside his brothers, Sherman and Clint, Charlie B. also played a significant role in shaping the city, having poured nearly half of the original concrete driveways/patios/sidewalks throughout Fairborn — work that still stands today as a testament to their craftsmanship and dedication.
During his time at Wesley Ridge, Charlie B. became especially beloved by the staff, who fondly knew him as a bit of a ladies’ man. With his great smile and gentle charm, he never missed an opportunity to flirt harmlessly, tell the ladies how beautiful they were, and brighten their day with his smooth, loving talk. His warmth, humor, and kindness brought joy to those around him.
Charlie B. spent his final years at Wesley Ridge Barnes Center in Reynoldsburg, Ohio, where he received exceptional care and compassion. His family is deeply grateful for the kindness, dignity, and support shown to him during that time.
Charlie B. was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, hard work, faith, and generosity will live on through his family for generations to come.
Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Uplifted Community Church, 4251 Powell Road, Huber Heights, Ohio. Friends may visit with the family from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. prior to the service at the church. Burial will follow at Byron Cemetery, 3256 Trebein Road, Fairborn, Ohio 45324.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to LEC Wesley Ridge Foundation 2225 Taylor Park Dr. Reynoldsburg, OH 43068 Attn: Sheila Cline Development Manager or LEC.ORG/FOUNDATION select Life Enriching Communities Associate Assistance, then in the comment type: Wesley Ridge / Barnes Center.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the JONES-KENNEY-ZECHMAN FUNERAL HOME. Condolences may be shared online at www.jkzfh.com.
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