Mr. Larry Hollis Akin

Mr. Larry Hollis Akin, 75, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 22, 2017 at his home in Dawson, GA. He was born on January 5, 1942 in Griffin, GA to the late Ellis Barron Akin and Hazel Corrine Hollis Akin. Larry grew up in Griffin, GA and developed a solid work ethic in his formative years. He enjoyed spending time with his grandparents on their rural farm tending to chores and plowing behind a mule while his mother developed her real estate career and eventually became the first female president of the Georgia Board of Realtors. As a teenager he joined the Civil Air Patrol, fell in love with flying and earned his pilot’s license. He graduated from Griffin High School in 1961 and loved playing in the high school band and singing with the Glee Club. He was also a member of the Library Club and became an avid reader. His love of music and reading continued throughout his life. He later went on to earn his Bachelor's Degree. As a young man he was employed at Southern States in Hampton, GA. While there he worked with the manufacturing of large switches, as well as hosing them down in sub-zero temperatures for testing and took thermography photos for the company. After moving to Albany, GA, Larry's career choices were varied and rewarding. He was an EMT for several years. Exploring other interests, he was a draftsman for M&M Mars, designing equipment for their production lines. He went on to further his career as a draftsman designing a vital piece of equipment for the railroad. The blueprints for this design are still in the family as this was one of his proudest achievements. After his move to Tennessee he worked as a draftsman at a shipyard and for Duracell Battery. While at Duracell he helped to design their first copper top battery cover. He was also an Honorary Bradley County Police Officer. The years he spent working with troubled youth as a Juvenile Officer were some of his most rewarding. With his love and encouragement, many of the kids he worked with turned their lives around and went on to become happy, successful adults. He mentored a number of others he lovingly called his adopted kids. Throughout his life, Larry cherished every moment spent with family and friends. He loved music, playing guitar which was so soothing to many, singing Karaoke, cooking, fishing, designing and building many things such as beautiful wooden clocks and cable guided motorized model airplanes that he and his family enjoyed flying together. He was active in the Boy Scouts of America leading a den group with his friend, Earl Lewis, for their sons. One of his many passions was tending a garden, he planted one every place he ever lived. His love of fast cars was well known as he owned a couple Dodge Chargers and enjoyed going to the Atlanta Speedway with family. One time he even was allowed to enjoy a quick trip around the track. For many years he dreamed of building an airplane and had already purchased the plans to build an air boat. He had an insatiable love of learning and life! Larry was a loving and compassionate man, with a remarkably positive attitude. Many would say they could find no better friend. He will be remembered for his huge and forgiving heart, gentle spirit, loyal nature, listening ear and sound advice, sought after by many. He will be greatly missed as the special gift he represented in so many lives. Dad was very proud of his family. He is survived by his children, Melanie Akin Stowers and her husband Rick of Tallahassee, FL, Laurie Beaver and her husband Rodger of Dawson, GA, Chris Akin and his wife Beth of Cleveland, TN, and his children’s mom Gloria Jones Akin of Albany, GA, his step children Alisha M. James of Charleston, TN, Christy Wells of Cleveland, TN, and Tammy Drain and her husband Russell of Calhoun, GA. Papa to grandchildren Melissa, Christian, Wesley, Lauren, Bradley, Nick, Steven, Caitlyn, Garret, and Olivia. Grandpa Larry to Mattson, and Kalan. Papa to great grandchildren Ansley and Mattis. He is also survived by cousins, and many, many loving friends. He was a blessed man. He was preceded in death by his older infant sister, grandson Rodger Wesley Beaver, and late wife Elizabeth (Beth) Vermell Akin. Dad loved his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He was firm in his beliefs, knowing he would be in Heaven when he left this life. We are at peace knowing you are with God. Dad we all love and adore you, our legacy to you will be to love, live and forgive the way you taught us, and to never stop exploring and learning. Missing you every day until we see you again. A memorial service celebrating his life will be held on Saturday, November 4th, 2017 at Freedom Church of Albany located at 2200 Ledo Road, Albany, GA 31707. Family visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m.; service will follow beginning at 11:00 a.m. Son Chris Akin and Pastor Dale Hodges will be officiating. A grave side service will be held at a later date at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens, Cleveland, TN. We invite you to share a memory or message and view family guestbook at www.kimbrellstern.com

Mr. Larry Hollis Akin

January 5, 1942 - September 22, 2017