Robert Eugene Adkins

On May 21, 2025, Robert Eugene (Gene) Adkins passed away peacefully at his home in Seneca, South Carolina. Born December 17, 1953, in Salisbury, Maryland; he was 71 years old.

Gene was the oldest of four siblings born to Robert Preston Adkins (deceased) and Edna Elnora (Layfield) Adkins.

Born on the eastern shore of Maryland, he spent his youth exploring the beauty of its serene waterways and abundant wildlife. His father, an avid outdoorsman, passed along to Gene his enthusiasm for outdoor adventure by including him in hunting, fishing, and boating trips.

A 1971 graduate of Mardella High School, Gene headed south to Marietta, Georgia and the Southern Technical Institute. He pursued a degree in Apparel Manufacturing Engineering Technology, graduating in 1974. At Southern Tech he pledged to the Sigma Pi fraternity. Gene would maintain many lifelong friendships with his Sigma Pi brothers.

Over the next 25 years, Gene would traverse the southern states working as an Engineer, Consultant, Director of Operations, and CEO of numerous manufacturing facilities. Always the problem solver, his focus was on streaming processes and performance improvement. Gene was recognized for his commitment to developing solutions to the industry challenges when he was named the 1992 SEAMS “Man of the Year”. Gene served as the 1993 Secretary/Treasurer, the 1998 President, and on the 1994-1995 Board of Directors of Southeastern Apparel Manufactures and Suppliers Association (SEAMS).

Tired of travel, Gene embarked on a career change in 1999; he joined the New York Life Insurance Company as an agent/financial advisor. Being an insurance agent was a natural fit for his outgoing, caring personality. In his job, Gene made it his goal to help his clients realize their financial dreams.

During his career, Gene received many accolades and awards. He was especially proud of his work with NYL and NAIFA – Blue Ridge as a Political Involvement Leader (PIL). He worked tirelessly for his clients and fellow agents at the State and National levels promoting sound legislation impacting the insurance and financial services industry. He was a proud 2017 graduate of the NAIFA “Leadership in Life Institute (LILI).

Gene retired in 2021 to his version of paradise, his farm on Lake Hartwell. In retirement, his days were filled with cutting trees, mending fences, tending chickens, garden cultivating and lots of beautiful sunsets on the deck. His four-legged companions, Lucy, Baby and Juno always by his side.

Gene was a proud father to his daughter Andrea and son Drew; an adoring Papa to grandchildren Killian, Aislin and AJ.

A caring big brother and mentor to his brother Donnie and sisters Lisa and Dana; A devoted son to his parents Robert and Elnora. He was a soulmate, a partner and a best friend to his wife Sherry.

Gene always found joy in making others happy and gave willingly from the heart. Robert Eugene Adkins was a GOOD man.

It was a gift to have known him.

Please join us in a Life Celebration at 1:00 PM on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Crown and Crest, 114 W. Walnut Street, Seneca, SC.