Rhonda Dee Adkins

Rhonda Dee Adkins, age 53, of Lynchburg, gained her wings Thursday, May 2, 2024 after a brief illness. Rhonda was born April 20, 1971 to parents Roy and Margaret Adkins and instantly became the joy in the hearts of her entire family. Rhonda was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) a type of Muscular Dystrophy, at age 2. Unknowingly at that time, this would become her life’s work and legacy. She was the MDA posterchild for Southwest Va. In 1980 and 1981, and a contestant in the Miss Wheelchair Virginia Pageant in 2006. She was an advocate for people with disabilities from 1979-2022. This included, lobbying with City Council, the Governor’s office and other government offices for the Accessibility Needs for Disabled People. Rhonda was also on the Board of the Lynchburg Area Center for Independent Living (LACIL) for many years. Rhonda was a graduate of Brookville High school in 1990. She loved music, singing, crafts, and photography. With a beautiful voice she was often asked to sing at special events for her family and friends. And shopping…turn her loose at the mall and it would be become an all-day event. She was the “shop ‘til you drop” queen. The annual vacations to the beach with family and friends were her favorite times and her “happy place”. Rhonda also loved animals and had two fur babies of her own, Bella and Dora. Rhonda is preceded in death by her mother, Margaret L. Adkins. She is survived by her father, Roy Adkins, grandmother, Margaret Layne, four uncles; Earl W. Layne (Carol), Roy L. Layne (Dorothy), Robert G. Layne, Jerry Layne (Penny), and close family member, Susan Poltar. Many other family members and friends too numerous to mention. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at 12:00 pm at Whitten Timberlake Chapel with Pastor Rick Rasberry officiating. In lieu of flowers, Rhonda requested that donations be made to www.curesma.org or to the Lynchburg Humane Society. Rhonda, your life was a Blessing, and your memory will always be a Treasure in the hearts of your family and friends.