Gary Mark Adkins

Gary Mark Adkins, 74, of Salem, passed away, Tuesday, July 15, 2025.

Gary is survived by his wife, Sandy Andrew; brother, William Thomas Adkins and wife Linda; sister, Janis Adkins-Ennis and husband Jamie; beloved dog, Silver; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. His family will miss him dearly, especially the chocolate pie he was famous for making.

Gary was a proud graduate of Virginia Tech in 1972. In his youth he was a national caliber kayaker. He is well known within the Roanoke running community. He and several of his buddies started the started the annual Run to The Star on January 1 each year for 34 years. He was the director for the Virginia Western 5k race for 20 years. Gary worked for the Virginia Western Community College as a Guidance Counselor for 34 years until his retirement in 2010.

The family would like to thank all the staff at Carilion Cancer Care Center at 10 south, as well as Good Samaritan Hospice House for all the care they gave to Gary in his final days, it was greatly appreciated.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations in Gary’s name to Pathfinders for Greenways P.O. Box 8553 Roanoke, Virginia 24014.

The family will have a gathering of family and friends Friday, July 18, 2025 from 11-2 at The Cregger Center (287 High Street Salem, Virginia 24153) at Roanoke College. Committal will be private for the family. Arrangements by Simpson Funeral Home Peters Creek Chapel. 540-366-0707.