Willa Carol Hamilton Adkins, age 57, of Richmond, formerly of Hillsboro, passed away Sunday, July 26, 2015, at Baptist Health in Richmond. Born March 27, 1958, in Rowan County, she is the daughter of Helen Roberts Hamilton of Hillsboro and Willis Hamilton, who passed away October 14, 2003. She was also preceded in death by a brother, Paul Hamilton, on March 17, 2013, and a niece, Melanie Hamilton, on April 13, 2015. Carol's husband, Douglas J. Adkins, passed away on May 4, 2005. In addition to her mother, Carol is survived by two children, Austin Tyler Adkins and Abigail Carol Adkins, both of Richmond; two brothers, Leroy Hamilton and Toni of Hillsboro and Roger Hamilton of Morehead; two sisters, Rebecca Lynn Proudfoot of Richmond and Joy Yonts and husband Mark of Lexington; several nieces and nephews; extended family members; and friends. Carol graduated from Fleming County High School and received a bachelor's degree and a master's degree from Morehead State University. As a math teacher for 27 years, she loved her job. She taught at Johnson County School System, Nicholas County Middle School, and Berea Community School. Carol's generous nature impacted the lives of her family, students, and friends in so many ways. Carol was the heart of the family. She loved helping those in need, and she never forgot a birthday or special occasion. The focus of her life, however, was her children. Fierce protector, loving mom, and devoted friend-she gave all her energy to her family. Carol was a beacon of light to all those who were close to her. She delivered good news in a way that made you feel special. If you needed advice or a tidbit of wisdom, Carol would tap you on the shoulder and start by saying, 'Let me tell you something-.' For her entire life, Carol was an uplifting spirit. She called her mother twice a day to check in and make sure everything was all right. She was quick to love and the first to forgive. The world has lost a gem, and the family mourns the loss of a great soul. She will be greatly missed. Funeral services will be conducted 1 p.m. Thursday, July 30, 2015, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals Memorial Chapel with the Rev. Harley Sexton, Jr. and Bro. Terry Roberts officiating. Burial will follow in Filson Cemetery in Fleming County. Pallbearers: Mark Yonts, Matthew Yonts, Robert Proudfoot, Robert Tyra, Scott Rawlings, Terry Roberts, Steve Gantz, and Hunter Hamilton. Visitation will be from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday, July 29, 2015, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals in Morehead. Visitation: Wednesday, July 29, 2015, 6 p.m.-9 p.m., Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals Funeral: Thursday, July 30, 2015, 1 p.m., Northcutt & Son Memorial Chapel Interment: Filson Cemetery, Lower Rock Lick