Orville "Shorty" E. Adkins Sr.

Orville “Shorty” Edward Adkins Sr., born November 19, 1941, in the hills of Johnbenn, West Virginia, crossed the finish line of a life well‑lived on June 22, 2026. True to his spirited nature, he did so with grit, humor, and the same spark that carried him through 84 remarkable years.

Shorty spent most of his life in Chicago and Pennsylvania, where he built a reputation as a hardworking, big‑hearted man who could fix just about anything. Over the years he worked in various machine shops, at Mack Trucks, and eventually carved out his own path as a self‑employed entrepreneur. He proudly owned the 3 Minute Car Wash and Rapid Lube in Hagerstown, Maryland—businesses he poured his energy, pride, and personality into.

A lover of racing, golf, and sunshine, Shorty made sure to spend his winters in Florida, where he could enjoy warm weather, good friends, and the thrill of life lived at full speed.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Norma J. Adkins, his three sons, his daughter, his brother Harold Adkins, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom carry his humor, determination, and love for adventure in their hearts.

Shorty leaves behind a legacy of hard work, laughter, and the belief that life is meant to be lived boldly. His story will continue through the many people he inspired along the way.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, June 29, 2026, at 11:00 AM, at Kelso-Cornelius Funeral Home, Ltd., 725 Norland Ave, Chambersburg, with Rev. Harold Yeager officiating. The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service.

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