Donald Ray Akin

Donald Ray Akin, 68, of Raleigh, died on July 31, 2015. Don was a proud veteran, having served in the United States Marine Corps for four years with a portion during the Vietnam War. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Statistics from Colorado State University and his Master’s degree in Statistics from Iowa State University. He worked as a professional statistician since 1973 for many companies, including Research Triangle Institute, and most recently for State of North Carolina Department of Public Health.

Don had a great love for his family and his friends. He took great joy in participating in the interests and pursuits of his children. He enjoyed being a volunteer and coach for Special Olympics and also volunteering for the Special Theater Arts of Raleigh (STAR). He also thoroughly enjoyed sports and following the local sports teams.

Don is survived by his loving wife, Marlys Simpson Akin; two sons, Brad Akin and Mitchell Akin; siblings, Pat Jones, John Hardesty (Carolyn), Sandy Thomas (Mike) and David Akin (Nancy); mother-in-law, Mickey Simpson; sisters-in-law, Patricia Simpson (Radah) and Connie Simpson; and many nieces and nephews. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Grace Akin; and brother, Paul Hardesty.

Family will receive friends Tuesday, August 4 from 6:00-8:00pm at Mitchell Funeral Home, 7209 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, NC. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, August 5 at 2:00pm at Jones Chapel at Meredith College, 3800 Hillsborough, Raleigh, NC. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Don’s memory to Special Olympics North Carolina (www.sonc.net), Steep Theatre, Chicago, IL (www.steeptheatre.com) or The Wounded Warrior Project (www.woundedwarriorproject.org).