James Linwood Akers

James was born December 30, 1920 in Chicago, to Herbert and Ruth (Hayford) Akers. After attending Butler University, he served his country for four years during WWII in the United States Marine Corp including the battle at Iwo Jima. On May 26, 1945 he married the former Helen Garmon Thompson in Indianapolis. He spent nearly all of his career in various responsibilities at IBM in Indianapolis. He was an avid sports fan (Cubs, Reds, Butler basketball) and especially loved to listen to baseball games on the radio and read his Sporting News. He was a good bowler and very much enjoyed his participation in the Beech Grove Lions Club, including being its president for several years. He also was a long time member of the Beech Grove United Methodist Church.

James is survived by his wife, Helen, of nearly 71 years, and three children: Michael James Akers (Mary) of Martinsville IN and Sun City, AZ, Stephen Thompson Akers (Martha) of Crawfordsville, IN, and Kathryn Rae Nagel (Richard) of Centerville, OH. He is survived by six grandchildren—Scott (Amanda) and Ryan Akers, Allison (Thomas) Bligh, and Zachary (Stephanie) Akers, Emily (Kris) Ambrose and Kyle Nagel. One grandchild—Joshua Akers—preceded him in death. He had a younger brother, Robert, who also preceded him in death. He also is survived by eight great-grandchildren---Alexa and Casey Akers, Taylor, Matthew, and Brayden Bligh, Faith and Leliana Akers, and Milana Ambrose.

A celebration of life service will be held on Sunday April 17th at 2:00 PM at Little & Sons Funeral Home in Beech Grove. Visitation will be from Noon until time of service. His son, Michael, will be officiating. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in Greenwood IN. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Lions Club of Beech Grove, Box 213 Beech Grove, IN 46107 Those wishing to sign James’ guestbook may do so at www.litttleandsonsbeechgrove.com