Olivia Akers

Olivia "Libby" Akers, 83, of Springfield, died on Saturday, July 21, 2012, at St. John's Hospital. Olivia was born October 11, 1928, in Springfield, the daughter of the late Elmer and Opal Hart. In addition to her parents, Olivia is preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Leonard Akers, her maternal and paternal grandparents, and her sister, Alberta Kemp. Mrs. Akers graduated from Petersburg High School in 1947 and spent her entire work history at St. John's Hospital, retiring as a surgical technician, after 58 years of service. Mrs. Akers was a devote Catholic who attended St. Patrick's Church, where she was diligent and faithful until her death. She is survived by two sons, Gregory B. (Dr. Juanita S.) Akers of Springfield and Chauncey (Nancy) Akers of Shorewood, MN; one daughter, Serene Akers of Springfield; eight grandchildren, Gregory, Adrian, Jarvis, Justin, Jesslyn, Charles, Antwain and Carter; several great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Geneva Work; and several nieces and nephews. Visitation: Family will receive friends from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 26, 2012, at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Visitation will begin with a prayer service at 4:00 p.m. An additional visitation will be held from 9:30-10:15 a.m. on Friday, July 27, 2012, at St. Patrick Catholic Church. Funeral Mass: 10:30 a.m. on Friday, July 27, 2012, at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 1720 S. Grand Ave. E., Springfield, with Rev. Charles Nelson celebrant. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to: American Heart Association, Midwest Affiliate, 3816 Paysphere Circle, Chicago, IL 60674.