Bea (Woodard) Adkins

Beatrice Woodard Adkins, affectionately known as Bea, passed away on September 1, 2024 at Metropolis Rehabilitation Health Care Center in Metropolis, IL, at the age of 98. Born on January 22, 1926, in New Liberty, IL, she spent most of her life dedicated to her community, her family and her numerous passions.

Bea’s professional journey was marked by her roles at several notable organizations, including Massac Memorial Hospital and Franklin School in Metropolis, IL. She also contributed to the Little Egypt Development Center in Metropolis, worked at Allied Chemical in Morristown, NJ and was part of Frank Thomas Real Estate in Aiken, SC.

A devout member of the First Christian Church in Metropolis, Bea’s faith was central to her life. Her engagement with the church and community was heartfelt and long-standing.

Bea was a former member of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, Metropolis Garden Club and Metropolis Ladies’ Golf Association.

Known for her sharp mind and competitive spirit, Bea was an avid bridge player, recognized for her skill and strategy in contract bridge, which she enjoyed well into her 90s. Her love for travel took her on numerous golfing trips and Florida winter getaways with her husband, Leonard, and family visits, notably to Charlotte, NC, where she enjoyed time spent with her NC family.

Bea is survived by her son, Gary Adkins and his wife, Bobette Steele of Metropolis, IL; daughter, Linda Arcilesi and her husband, Richard Arcilesi of Charlotte, NC; and granddaughter, Marisa Arcilesi and her fiancé, Lawrence Michlovich of Fort Lauderdale, FL.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bert Woodard and Leffie Harris Woodard; her brother, Dick Woodard; and her sister, Virginia Woodard Hinners.

Bea’s family wishes to express deep appreciation to the many devoted staff and care team at Misty Meadows, Metropolis Rehabilitation Health Care Center and Residential Hospice who so lovingly provided care for Bea.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial gifts be made to First Christian Church, 420 Catherine Street, Metropolis, IL 62960.

A memorial service to celebrate Bea’s life will be held Saturday, September 7, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. at Aikins-Farmer-Loftus-McManus Funeral Home, 70 Jon Street, Metropolis, IL 62960. Visitation at the funeral home will precede the service from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Condolences for the family may be left online at www.aikinsfarmer-millerfh.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Bea (Woodard) Adkins, please visit our floral store.