Layman Benjamin Adkins

Layman Benjamin Adkins, age 85, passed away on Friday, November 6, 2026. He was born on October 16, 1941.

Born and raised in Vienna, MO, Layman became the primary caretaker of his grandmother's farm at just twelve years old, an experience that helped shape his strong work ethic, independence, and dedication to hard work. He had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and took great pride in working with his hands. Layman enjoyed hunting, fishing, genealogy, building, and carpentry. Throughout his life, he cherished the time spent with his family and enjoyed sharing stories and memories with those he loved. Whether working on a project, spending time outdoors, or simply enjoying the company of family and friends, Layman found happiness in life's simple pleasures. He was also proud of his educational accomplishments, having graduated first in his class from Linn Technical College with an Associate Degree in Electrical Engineering. He worked at McDonnell Douglas for over thirty years. Layman was a man of strong faith who dedicated much of his life to his church and family. His faith was the cornerstone of his life, and he faithfully served as a Sunday school teacher for over 40 years. He was also the deacon of the church for many years, and was elected chairman of the deacon's.

Layman is survived by his four daughters, Mary Lorraine Adkins, Beverly Marlene (Peter) Hult, Katherine Jean (Jason) Tharp, and Brenda Kaye (Matthew) Brooks; five grandchildren, Alexandria (Julian Calle Cristancho) Hult, Carter Hult, Brooke Tharp, Winter Brooks, and Rayne Brooks; his siblings, Mary Louise (the late Charles) Halbrook, David Edison (Janale) Adkins, Helen Bernice (Donald) Smith, Herbert Samuel (Deborah) Adkins, and Janice Juanita (Dale) Schmitz.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 59 years, Mildred Marlene Adkins; his parents Homer Edison and Mary Adiliada (nee Duke) Adkins.

Visitation will be from 9:30 am until 11:00 am with a Funeral Ceremony immediately following at 11:00 am on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at First Baptist Church of O'Fallon, located at 8750 Veterans Memorial Parkway, O'Fallon, Missouri 63366.

A Graveside Service will take place on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at 11:00 am at Union Hill Baptist Church Cemetery in Vienna, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Gideons International by copy and pasting the following link into your web browser https://www.gideons.org/donate.