Rodna Adkins  86, of Utica, Kentucky a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother passed away Thursday, September 5, 2024 at his home.  Rodna Adkins was born October 11, 1937 in the Brooklyn Community of Butler County, Kentucky to the late Rufus and Kate Coleman Adkins and was married to the former Mildred June Rust on October 18, 1958.  Rodna's life was a tapestry of dedication, warmth, and community service, woven through his 86 years of life.

     A graduate of the former Livermore High School, Rodna furthered his education by earning an associate's degree from Murray State University.  His professional life was as varied as it was impressive.  Rodna began his career as a skilled machinist, working at various companies in Louisville and Spencer County.  His passion for teaching and guiding the next generation led him to become a post-secondary machine shop teacher at Owensboro Technical and Vocational School.  There, he not only imparted knowledge but also served as a sponsor for VICA, the Vocational Industrial Clubs of America, nurturing a competitive vocational team to excellence.

     Rodna's entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly as he, along with his wife, owned and operated Adkins' Store and Restaurant in Livia for several years.  This venture was a testament to his hard work and commitment to his community.

     A Mason since 1964, Rodna earned his Master Masons Degree and was a proud member of the Utica Lodge #742 F. & A.M.  His involvement in the Masonic community was a reflection of his dedication to fraternity and charity.  Rodna's interests were as rich as his life's work.  He was an avid fan of University of Kentucky Basketball and a lover of country music, often found enjoying the tunes of the Grand Ole Opry.  Traveling was another passion, and he cherished the opportunity to explore and create memories with his family.  His adventurous spirit extended to the racetrack, where he served in the pit crew for his grandson's racing team, sharing in the thrill and camaraderie of the sport.

     A man of faith, Rodna was a member of the Baptist Faith, living his beliefs through his actions and the love he bestowed upon his family and friends.

     Rodna Adkins' life was marked by the love he had for his family, the respect he earned from his peers, and the countless lives he touched through his teaching and community involvement.  His memory will be cherished and kept alive through the stories, lessons, and love he left behind.

     In addition to his parents, Rodna was preceded in death by two sons, Wade Adkins and Alan Adkins; two sisters, Hazel Atherton and Hilda Delaney; and by three brothers, Robert Adkins, Rollie Adkins, and Roger Adkins.

     Rodna is survived by his wife of 65 years, Mildred Adkins; three daughters, Sharon Thurman (Kelly) of Livermore, Kathy Adkins (John Cross) of Buck Creek, and Donna Ellis (David) of Utica; two daughters-in-law, Liz Adkins and Barb Adkins; 11 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; and a brother, Roy Adkins (Marie) of Utica.

     Funeral services will be held at 3:00 P.M. Monday, September 9, 2024 at Muster Funeral Homes, Livermore Chapel.  Burial will be in the Green River Memorial Gardens in Livermore.  Friends may visit with Rodna’s family from 11:30 A.M. until 3:00 P.M. Monday at Musters in Livermore.

     The Rodna Adkins family requests that expressions of sympathy take the form of donations to Utica Lodge # 742 F. & A.M.; C/O Duane Atherton; 1110 East Harmons Ferry Road; Utica, Kentucky  42376 or Buck Creek Baptist Church; 3788 Highway 431 North; Calhoun, Kentucky  42327.

     Rodna’s services will be streamed live on musterfuneralhomes.com at 3:00 P.M. Monday.

     Share your memories and photos of Rodna at musterfuneralhomes.com.