James "Ed" Adkins, 92, of Grinnell died on Thursday, February 29, 2024 at the Mayflower Healthcare Center in Grinnell.

Memorial services are scheduled for 11:00 AM, Saturday, March 30th, 2024 at Smith Funeral Home in Grinnell. A visitation will be held two hours prior to the service starting at 9:00 AM. Burial at Hazelwood Cemetery will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be designated to the Grinnell V.F.W. Post 3932 or Tiger Scholarship Fund (formerly known as Dollars for Scholars) and mailed in care of Smith Funeral Home PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112.

James "Ed" Edward Adkins was born on July 26, 1931, on his family farm west of Grinnell, the son of Verlin and Lona Mintle Adkins. He was a graduate of Grinnell High School, class of 1949.

Ed was a family-oriented, loving, caring, and friendly individual who never met a stranger he didn't like. He was a social person who had a knack for being a handyman. His outgoing nature made him a joy to be around.

Ed honorably served his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. Following his military service, he pursued a career as an HVAC specialist.

Family was at the center of Ed's life, and he cherished moments spent with his loved ones. He enjoyed get-togethers with family, having coffee with friends at Hardee's and HyVee, working with his hands, tending to his vegetable gardens, and caring for his dogs.

Ed is survived by his wife, Esther Adkins; children, Lisa Adkins, Gene Adkins (Michelle), Lacinda Hanson (Michael); step-grandchildren, Stephen Ramerth (Melissa), Mathew Ramerth (Violet Ohnstad), and Megan Ramerth (Brandon Ferguson). He was preceded in death by his parents, Verlin and Lona Mintle Adkins; son, Phillip E. Adkins; and brother, Robert Adkins.