Karolyn Adkins

Karolyn Grey (Hopkins) Adkins, 79, of Middletown, Delaware, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2026. Born on July 2, 1947, in Chilhowie, Virginia, Karolyn was the beloved daughter of Clifford W. and Charmine C. (Wyatt) Hopkins, both of whom preceded her in death.

Raised in Newark, Delaware, this is where Karolyn devoted her life to her family and created a loving, nurturing, and stable home for her husband and three children. She graduated from Christiana High School in 1965 and went on to build a distinguished 34‑year career with DuPont, retiring as an Executive Secretary. After retirement, she moved to Naples, Florida with her husband and father, where she continued her professional journey as Administrative Assistant to the CEO of Vineyards Development Company for 12 years.

Karolyn was known for her sophistication, refined sense of style, and polished demeanor. She moved through life with remarkable grace and her warm spirit touched anyone fortunate enough to know her. She loved dogs and found joy in their companionship and training them. Her passions also included dancing, aerobics, and singing in her church choir. She was a proud member of First Naples Church and the DuPont Secretary’s Club. One of Karolyn’s greatest joys was traveling to Hawaii with her husband, family, and friends over the years.

Karolyn is survived by her devoted husband of 42 years, George W. Adkins, Sr., and their three children: George W. Adkins, Jr. (Lindsey) of Lehigh Acres, FL; David M. Adkins (Cindy) of Middletown, DE; and Michele L. Derrickson (David) of Newark, DE.

She was lovingly known as “Nana” to her surviving grandchildren: Charm Speer, Lili Adkins, Breann Lively, Jessica Adkins, Olivia Grey Adkins, Evan Derrickson, Logan Derrickson, and Leatham Jow. She also leaves behind three great‑grandchildren, a close circle of extended family, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Karolyn was preceded in death by her grandson, Jacob Derrickson, along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins in Virginia who each held a special place in her heart. She was also preceded by her mother‑ and father‑in‑law, several brothers‑in-law and a sister‑in‑law with whom she shared a meaningful and loving bond.

Karolyn’s life was defined by grace, loyalty, faith, and deep love for her family. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Karolyn’s memory to First Naples Church or the Brandywine Valley SPCA, honoring her unwavering faith and lifelong love of animals.

Funeral Services will be at 3 pm on Sunday, July 26 at NICHOLS-GILMORE FUNERAL HOME, 212 E. Justis St. Newport, Delaware 19804 where visitation will begin at 1:30 pm. Burial will be private.