William Dallas Adkins

With heavy hearts, we share the passing of William “Pee Wee” Adkins, who left this world peacefully in his sleep on April 17, 2025, after living with dementia.

Born in Mears, Virginia, to Minnie Griffin and Dallas Adkins, William was one of many siblings and enjoyed close bonds with his nieces, nephews, and cousins throughout his life. His early years were filled with hard work and adventure—logging with the family business and building grain silos across the Midwest.

William proudly served in Vietnam with the U.S. Army’s 1st Infantry Division, earning a Bronze Star for his bravery during the Tet Offensive. After returning home, he brought the same sense of dedication to his work at ILC, where he helped craft suits and equipment for NASA astronauts—something he took immense pride in. He later found a second home and lifelong friends at Burris Foods, where he spent the remainder of his career.

At home, William was a devoted husband and father. He and his wife Doris shared 48 loving years together. Their bond was evident to all who knew them, and she remained faithfully by his side through every moment of his final chapter. He was the proud father of four sons—Jeff, Scott, Austin, and James Dallas—and the beloved grandfather of eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. He loved each of them dearly and was deeply loved in return.

William had a passion for life. He loved camping, fishing, and crabbing. He cherished time spent at the Moose Lodge and the American Legion. He enjoyed tinkering with projects—especially boats—and often enjoyed talking about his plans as much as doing them. He had a generous heart, a quick wit, and a gift for making others laugh. He was always ready to lend a hand and will be missed more than words can express.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the nurses and doctors who gave him extra time, and to the compassionate staff of the Delaware Veterans Home, who cared for him during his final year.

Memorial Services will be held on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 12:00pm in the chapel of Berry-Short Funeral Home, 119 NW Front St. Milford, DE 19963. A time of visitation will be held prior from 10:30-12:00pm at the funeral home. Following the service, interment with military honors will be held at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery.