Corby Jo Adkins, a beloved wife, daughter, sister, aunt, and dedicated Coast Guard service member, departed to her heavenly home peacefully on February 6, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of courage and deep-rooted love for her family and country. She was born on January 17, 1967, to Bob and Joanne of Villa Park, IL where she grew up and became known for her adventurous free spirit, quirky fun-loving humor, and thoughtful giving heart. But make no mistake, she had a feisty side and flaunted her own personal flavor of rebel individuality without apology.

Corby is survived and missed by her loving wife Kay, brother Mark, and sisters Becky, Brandi, and Randi. Corby was the cherished aunt of Shane, Joshua, Christopher, Ashley, and Laura. Along with great nephews Elias, Alex, Evan, and Tommy, and great nieces Harper, Kassie, Teresa, Carley, Amber, Alexa, and Ski. She was preceded in death by paternal grandparents George and Kathleen, maternal grandparents Ray and Betty, parents Bob and Joanne, brother Rob, and great niece Courtney.

From a young age, Corby had a vibrant, outspoken personality and often shared her raw authentic self with others unreservedly. However, she discovered her passion for writing early on in life and expressed the very deepest parts of her heart through written poetry. While Corby didn't care much for school as a young girl, she was a bright and capable student who enjoyed math so much she once completed 48 past-due math
worksheets for her younger sister to spare her from flunking the 3rd grade. Her #1 childhood dream was to become a famous movie actress. Eventually she discovered a knack for navigating locations by reading maps, and following her service in the Coast Guard, she earned her Associates of Arts Degree with a focus on Travel and Tourism.

Corby's expressive and fun-loving nature cultivated a warm and inviting vibe that put others at ease. Yet she readily welcomed (and initiated!) impassioned debate, standing strong and persistent with her ideas and beliefs. Her natural tendency to offer a smile, a listening ear, or a heartfelt word of encouragement to others in need came straight from her heart. Whether she was shining her light, expressing frustration, laughing at her own jokes, or challenging your stance on a matter, with Corby, it was her authenticity others could count on.

Corby's decision to join the Coast Guard at age 19 not only exemplified her bravery and strength, but also her inspiring dedication to follow her dreams and achieve the extraordinary. Throughout her two-year service, she remained diligent in her duties, and earned recognition and respect from her fellow service members, the communities she served, and the life-long friendships she made. Corby's open-hearted love for her aunts, uncles, and cousins reflected her loyal nature and the high value she placed on family connection.

Corby absolutely loved watching movies and binging on her favorite television shows. She was known for her impressive memory recall, reciting lines to movies at the most random, yet perfectly timed moments. She was also passionate about music and enjoyed a variety of genres over the years - with her favorite being 80's bands. As such, her talent for playing the "air drums" with unmatched precision and accuracy was widely recognized. Corby's vulnerable transparency, along with her "live out loud" personality, highlighted her resistance against cookie-cutter social norms - her nonconformist makeup designed by her Creator Himself.

Some of her favorite things included Camero's, twinkies, dolphins, the beach, the color green, Portillo's Hot Dogs and Beefs, and the Chicago Bears, baby! Her favorite actor (and first movie star crush) was the one and only: John Travolta. Property Management was her favorite job, and she found her calling performing administrative tasks as she thrived on developing and implementing creative solutions that made coworkers' jobs easier - contributing to the success of her organization. The song Shine by Newsboys was a classic favorite. And some very favorite people in her life were her nephews and nieces! Her love for them was boundless, and she expressed adoration toward them unwaveringly, taking so much pride in their growth and achievements.

And now, it simply goes without saying (though she'd be "crackin' skulls" if left unsaid) her joyfully outspoken rock-solid relationship with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ was indeed her final trump card that trumped all other trumps, as HE Himself was her absolute, hands down, all time total favorite EVER, both in this life and for "Eternities" to come. Well played, Corbs! Well played . . .

A few of the many things Corby Jo Adkins will be remembered for includes her military service, her playful nature, her generous spirit, her bold uniqueness, and the humbling display of her relentless love. Corby leaves behind a profound void and unmistakable impact on her family, friends, and those whom God divinely intended to cross her chosen journey.

Cremation arrangements were entrusted to Clary-Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory, in DeFuniak Springs, Florida. In honor of Corby's expressed wishes, her Celebration of Life will take place at Blackie Bridge in Villa Park, IL where loved ones will gather to honor her memory through the spreading of her ashes.

Surely Corby's spirit eternally lives on in the hearts of those she leaves behind, along with all the memories forever etched upon our souls.
Isaiah 60:1

"Arise and SHINE! For your light has come and the Glory of The Lord is risen upon you!" {xoxo See ya when we get there, Corbs!!! xoxo}