Spencer Devon Adkins' Obituary
ALGONAC, Mich. — Spencer D. Adkins Sr., 85, of Algonac, died June 8, 2025, at Henry Ford River District Hospital, surrounded by family.
He was born in 1939 in Wayne, WV, a son of the late Homer and Polly (Bradshaw) Adkins.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Mary (Ames) Adkins; two sons, Spencer D. Adkins II (Susan) and Jason B. Adkins (Jamie); and grandchildren, Stuart Adkins (Brianna) and great-grandson Lincoln Spencer Adkins, Nathan Adkins (Haylie), Nicholas Spencer Adkins, Graham Adkins, and twin sisters Hannah Adkins and Madison Adkins.
Spencer was a longtime educator in the Algonac Community Schools, where he taught history and later science to at least 2 generations at Gilbert Junior High and Algonac Junior High. Following his retirement from education, he was employed by the Ford Motor Company as an instructor, focusing on alternative fuel technologies including natural gas-powered engines.
Spencer and Mary also shared their love with their cherished cairn terrier, Mazey, who is still a source of joy to the family. Spencer is also survived by special former fellow teachers and students whom he loved and admired as well as friends from church and the community around him.
Spencer was an avid student of history, science and all facets of life. He had a natural interest in knowing the past to guide the future. He loved to understand how things work and teaching others to think and be curious about the world around them. He had a strong interest in airplanes, boats, cars and enjoyed all of the Detroit sports teams dating back to the 1950s.
Spencer’s legacy lives on through his family and friends, and all who were touched by his wisdom, humor, and compassion.
Funeral services 11:00 AM Friday June 13, 2025 in the Young Gilbert Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Algonac. Visitation 6:00 to 8:00 PM Thursday and 10.00 AM until time of service Friday. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Algonac-Clay Twp. Historical Society, PO Box 228, Algonac, MI 48001 or to the Port Huron Habitat for Humanity, 3524 Pine Grove Ave., Port Huron, MI 48060.
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