ROBERT M. ADKINS, JR.

The Life, Loves and Legacy of  Robert Milton Adkins, Jr

His Life It was a great day in San Antonio as God smiled on Robert Milton Adkins, Sr and Alberta Greenwood Adkins for He delivered into their lives on February 16, 1947, the bright and loving spirit of their son, Robert M. Adkins, Jr. This was the opening to a life of commitment, service and love for others.

Affectionally known as “Boe”, he was the youngest of three siblings (deceased). Robert enjoyed being part of “the neighborhood” and the life-long friendships he developed and treasured. He received his education in San Antonio ISD at Booker T. Washington, Douglas Jr Hi and Phillis Wheatley HS. In high school he excelled in sports in the areas of football and, track and field. 

After graduating from Wheatley, Robert joined the Air Force and was assigned as a helicopter mechanic and crew chief. His 12 years in the Air Force included one year in Viet Nam and assignments that allowed him to continue to play semi-pro-football intertwined with playing his bass guitar. Upon leaving active duty, Robert joined the Air Force Reserve where he retired as a Master SGT with 28 years of service. After his active duty discharge in 1977, he continued his education at St. Phillips College and South West Texas State University where he graduated in 1981 with a Bachelor of Science and later from Texas A&I with a Masters of Arts degree. 

His Loves If you were to ask, “What has been the most exciting parts of your life?” Robert would reflect on his high school years; being captain of the football team; his  induction into the Prairie View Interscholastic League Coaches Association (PVVILCA) 2017 Hall of Fame; serving in Viet Nam as a helicopter mechanic; coaching and  teaching history  at the middle school/high school for 27 years (Mark Twain, Sam Houston High and S.J. Davis Middle School). Many referred to  him as “Coach”. He enjoyed coaching sports and had a special love for history.  He started playing the bass guitar at the age of 13 and enjoyed playing all types of music. His favorite bands were  James Brown, Earth, Wind & Fire, Cool & the Gang, Otis Redding, and the Joe Tex Band. Drag car racing found its way into his many talents and pastimes. He was proud to be a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. 

Responding to what he believed was his ultimate calling from God, Robert enjoyed serving as a musician at Bethel A.M.E. Church and for the San Antonio District. Just as Directors  would ponder over which musical selections were best, he pined over which guitar gave the best sound for the music he was to learn. He spent hours in personal practice and always strived to give his very best. For many he became the “Guitar Man” or “The Thumper”. 

Robert and his wife, O. Raye Adkins enjoyed and are thankful 41 wonderful years of marriage. Robert’s display of Christian love was the foundation for their relationship and was an incredible influence on their two sons, Darryl Adkins and John V. Coleman-Adkins (deceased). 

His Legacy A loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, cousin, class mate, colleague and friend, Robert leaves a valued impression on those left behind. His legacy is one that reminds us that our actions should strive to have a positive effect on the lives of  others. Robert added value to the people around him. His sharing of historical knowledge, compliments, advice and humility came as quickly as his smiles. Robert leaves to cherish his memory his wife Raye; son Darryl Adkins (Kelli);  grand children: Taos and Ivy Adkins; Kendall & Erin (John Adkins) nephews, cousins, in-laws, colleagues, classmates and friends. While he will be greatly  missed, hearts are filled with gratitude for his life.           Robert M. Adkins, Jr.