Terry Akins

March 27, 1950 – September 30, 2025

Terry Wayne Akins, age 75, went home to the Lord on Tuesday, September 30th, 2025.

Terry was born on March 27th, 1950, in Memphis, Tennessee; grew up in the area with his 5 siblings and spent time with family in Arkansas.

On October 10th, 1969, Terry married Pam, and they were blessed with 2 sons, Wayne and Dennis. They would have celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary next week. Throughout their time they lived in Memphis, Tupelo, and settled down in Lakeland, Tennessee; they had many adventures, countless memories, and created a beautiful family together.

He went to work at AC Electric out of high school and retired after spending 54 years with them. Beyond work, Terry found joy in being a Deacon and Sunday school teacher at Trafalgar Village Baptist church, cheering on the Arkansas Razorbacks, watching John Wayne movies, and sharing laughs with his loved ones. He will be remembered for many things, but ultimately his kind heart - Terry never met a stranger. As well as his fierce devotion to his family, and the Lord.

Terry is survived by his wife Pam, his son Wayne (Christy) in Scotts Hill, Tennessee, and his son Dennis in Somerville, Tennessee. Additionally, by his beloved grandchildren, Tyler Wayne Akins (Alyssa) in Navarre Florida; Noah Kevin Akins (Lizzy) in Millington Tennessee; and Lauren McKenzie Akins in St. Louis Missouri. Also leaving behind his sister Catherine McHenry in Earle, Arkansas; brother David Akins (Judy) in Fishers, Indiana; and sister Denisce Paine in Memphis, Tennessee.

He was preceded in death by his father G.W Akins, mother Jean Jenkins, and stepfather Dwane Jenkins. As well as his sister Linda Carol Akins, and brother Leroy Newton.

While not his biological grandchildren, Terry also left behind Noah Smith, William Smith, Bane Bapst, Amanda Panis, and Zach Panis; whom he loved just as his own blood.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, October 4th at 10 AM at Memphis Funeral Home 3700 N. Germantown Parkway. Followed by a Celebration of Terry’s Life at Trafalgar Village Baptist Church at 11 AM at 6161 Summer Avenue.

Any memorials could be sent to Trafalgar Village Baptist Church Extreme Makeover Fund, or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Terry spent his life bringing light into the world, both through his work, and through the love and kindness he shared with everyone around him. Though the world may feel a little dimmer without him here with us, we take comfort in knowing that his light now shines brightly in heaven, guiding us always.