Laura Jean Akins

For many years, Laura worked as a hostess and as a trainer at Cracker Barrel of East Ridge—welcoming people the way only she could, with a steady work ethic and a giving spirit that made others feel right at home. She was also a member of The International Ladies' Garment Workers' Union (ILGWU).

Laura Jean lived a life that seemed to run on kindness and practicality—always noticing what needed doing, and then quietly doing it. Selfless in ways both large and everyday, she spent her life serving others: helping raise her brothers and sisters, then raising her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. And if a new baby came along, chances are a handmade blanket wasn’t far behind—she made them not only for family, but for the babies of co-workers too, generosity stitched into every thread. Loved by everyone, she also brought laughter with her wherever she went, and music was never far from her heart.

Laura is survived by her husband, David Wayne Akins "Reddog" and her 3 daughters, Cathi Leigh Hixson Mingas (Steven), Mary Frances Hixson, and Elizabeth Jean Hixson Taylor (James), 8 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leila Frances Brown Lewis and Arthur Elmer Lewis, her 3 brothers, Ronald Elmer Lewis, Douglas Ray Lewis, and Paul Wayne Lewis, and a sister, Linda Frances Lewis McDowell.

A special thank you to Hearth Hospice for the compassionate service they gave to Laura.

A Celebration of Laura's Life will be held in the East Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home on Tuesday April 28, 2026, at 1:00 pm. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 11:00 am. She will be laid to rest in the Lakewood Memory Gardens East.

Serving as pallbearers will be Caleb and Erick White, Philip Hixson, Shaun Berry, David Brown, Ray McDowell, A.J. Hamilton, and Steven Mingas.

Please share your thoughts and memories of Laura with the family at www.chattanoogaeastchapel.com

Chattanooga Funeral Home East Chapel has been entrusted with her arrangements.