Kathryn Darlene Akers

Kathryn D. Akers was born August 19, 1947 in Indianapolis, Indiana to Add and Sarah Butler. She was one of seven children born to their union. Kathryn departed this life on February 15, 2026 at the age of 78 years old.

Kathryn dedicated her life to Christ at an early age and was a longtime member of Pilgrim Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. She attended Indianapolis Public Schools, graduating from Manuel High School. Kathryn loved music - her favorites were gospel and nearly all the artists from Motown. She was also an amazing dancer and was generally featured on Bandstand 13, a popular Indianapolis-based teen dance show.

In the late 1960s, smitten by Kathryn, a gentleman named John Akers approached her and said he would take care of her. A blushing Kathryn replied, “OK.” The two married on January 11, 1969. The couple was inseparable, always displaying love and affection towards one another and their three children. John fulfilled his promise to Kathryn. At the time of his death in 2017, the couple had been married for 48 years.

Kathryn was an avid sports fan and especially loved the Indiana Pacers. She spent many years working as a warehouse manager at Market Square Arena and Conseco Fieldhouse. She also worked at Aramark - Victory Field as officer manager. Kathryn had a strong and loving personality. She enjoyed traveling and spending time with family and friends. Everyone was welcomed in her home and she always fed them well. While many people considered Kathryn a bonus mom and grandmother, she reserved special places in her heart for her three children and granddaughter, Alexis. Kathryn was especially close to Alexis, often spoiling her with the world’s best oatmeal and hugs.

Kathryn was preceded in death by her parents, Add and Sarah Butler; husband, John E. Akers; children, James Akers and Kimberly Akers; sisters, Allie Bee Johnson and Sarah Francis Sharp; brothers James Butler, Sam Butler, and Add Butler. Survivors include daughter Nicole Akers-Dunlop (Arron); granddaughter Alexis Dunlop; sister Karen Franklin; sister-in-law Mary Torrence; and a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins, and many, many friends.

Kathryn’s love, kindness, and warm spirit touched everyone she met. She will be deeply missed.

A visitation will be held at Crown Hill Funeral Home, located at 700 W. 38th St., Indianapolis, IN 46208, on February 28, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.

A Celebration of Life will follow at the same venue, beginning at 12:00 pm.