Willie Akers

Willie 'Bill' Griffin Akers, age 81, of Ontario, died early Thursday morning, April 1, 2004, at his home after a brief illness. He was born September 30, 1922, in Elkridge, West Virginia, to Eddie Griffin and Lillie Craig Akers. Bill was formerly employed as an electrician for Mansfield City Schools. He attended First Assembly of God church and was a life member of V.F. W. Post #765 in Ontario. Bill served during WWII with the U.S. Army.

He is survived by his wife, Eva Chrastina Akers; two daughters and sons-in-law, Becky and Randy Bryhn of Galion and Rhonda and Ron Higgins of Ontario; five grandchildren and their spouses, Jennifer and David Welsh, Christofer and Melissa Craft, Riley Higgins, Ria Higgins and Reece Higgins; six great-grandchildren, Cameron, Jacob, and Ashby Welsh, Allan James and Ian Griffin Craft, and McKenzie Sibley; two brothers and sisters-in-law, James and Clara Lee Akers and Jack and Margaret Akers, all of Enterprise, W. Virginia; and numerous nieces and nephews, who were special throughout the years and also many angels walking around whom helped with Bill's care- May God give you special blessings- 'You know who you are'. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Ruby Smith Akers and Ruth Akers Vandenburg; and two grandchildren, Rory Higgins and Risa Higgins.

Memorial services will be held Monday, April 5 at 11:00 a.m. at First Assembly of God Church, conducted by Rev. Thomas Blair. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of North Central Ohio. Wappner Funeral Directors assisted the family with arrangements.