LEONARD EARL ADKINS

In Loving Memory ofLeonard Earl “Bubba D” Adkins Jr.August 13, 1938 – May 26, 2026

Leonard Earl “Bubba D” Adkins Jr., age 87, received his wings and was peacefully called home on May 26, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Leonard was born on August 13, 1938, in Dallas, Texas, to Leonard Adkins Sr. and Eula Mae Glenn Adkins, who preceded him in death. Bubba was the second of six children born to this union. His siblings were Frances Haynes, Johnny Ray Adkins Sr., Don Adkins (preceded in death), Larry Adkins (preceded in death), and Forrest Adkins (preceded in death).

Bubba received his education and diploma from Booker T. Washington High School, where he was also a proud member of the JROTC program. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served honorably until his discharge in 1958.

Following his military service, Bubba worked alongside his uncle, John H. Glenn Sr., selling real estate for 16 years. He later joined the Marriott Corporation, where he worked as a maître d’ for another 16 years before retiring in 1989.

Never one to stop pursuing his dreams, Bubba opened his own businesses, Bubba’s Texas Barbecue and JR’s Bar & Grill. His passion for cooking and feeding others became his life’s work, and he continued sharing his love through food until his health no longer allowed him to do so.

On December 31, 1958, Leonard married the love of his life, Ellen Laverne Williams. To this union, three children were born: Leonard Earl Adkins III (preceded in death), Eulalia Renae Adkins, and Alison Elaine Adkins.

“Pawpaw,” as he was affectionately known by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, leaves behind a legacy of love through Robert Earl Porter, Ashley Lynn Gooseberry, Thomas Chance Adkins, Lavandrea Renae Gooseberry (preceded in death), and Chelsea Chanel Crisler.

He also leaves to cherish his memory his great-grandchildren: Elijah D’won Stockton, Joseph Deshaun Watson, Madyson Ellen Gaines, Zoey Lyric Gaines, Dominique Dontae Gage, Daniel DeMarcus Gaines Jr., Aiden DeMarcus Gaines, and Aaniyah Chanel Renae Crisler.

Papa never backed down from speaking his mind. He was feisty, stubborn when he wanted to be, and full of personality. Whether you agreed with him or not, you always knew where he stood. His quick wit, strong spirit, and unforgettable attitude brought laughter and stories that will be shared for years to come.

His memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Bubba leaves to mourn and cherish his memories by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends