Barbara Blythe Akin

Barbara Blythe Akin, 72, of Oak Lawn, IL passed away on August 8, 2026, due to a long battle with dementia. Barbara is survived by her daughter, Tonie Akin, sister Kathy Akin (Nick Edyvane) and brother, Fred Akin. She was a beloved daughter to her parents, Fred and Rita Akin, and granddaughter to Catherine and John Kamm.

Barbara grew up in Oak Lawn, graduated from Oak Lawn Community High School and nursing school, and worked at Christ Hospital and a local care facility.

Barbara was a devoted mother to her daughter, Tonie, and they could be seen around town, if not at the grocery store or parks, looking for treasures at the thrift store. She was a talented artist, loved to read, especially poetry and wrote poetry. Barbara loved to dance, took dance classes as a young girl and was fond of a night out dancing, or cranking up the tunes to dance in the kitchen as she cooked. She was an avid runner and won trophies at local races. Barbara was a kind and generous spirit to everyone, whether it was caring for her father in his last days, or giving food or money to any homeless person she encountered.

A celebration of life will be held at Franconello Restaurant, 10222 S. Western Avenue, Chicago. on Wednesday, September 30 beginning at Noon.