Barbara Jean "Tootsie" Akins

Barbara Jean “Tootie” Akins passed away on Sunday, November 14, 2021 She was born on October 7, 1937 to the late Warren G. “Big Boy” and Pauline Beard, and was a lifelong resident of Benton.
Along with her parents she was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Kenneth Akins; three brothers, Jeffrey, Jimmy Randall, and Don Beard; and two sisters, Faye Beard Milen, and Judy Beard Burrows.
She was affectionately referred to as “The General” by her family members, she loved a good book, the mountains of Polk County, riding through Caves Cove, her daughter, her faithful companion Boone, and her extended family.
She leaves behind to cherish her memory, her daughter, Julie Rae Akins; four brothers, Kenneth “Bige” (Wanell) Beard, Ronnie (Betty) Beard, Tony (Adeline) Beard, and John (Lisa) Beard; her special friends, Janet Kent-Ledford, and Natasha Kent-Ledford; along with a host of extended family and friends including many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Following “Tootie’s” final wishes there will be no services held at this time.
You are invited to share a personal memory of Tootsie or your condolences with her family at her online memorial located at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral Home of Athens and the Cody family are honored to assist the family with these arrangements.