Jerry Dale Akin, 72, went to be with the Lord November 7, 2013. He was born July 23, 1941, in McAlester, Ok to Dan and Viola Akin. While still a child, his family moved to Bethany. He graduated a proud Broncho with the class of '59. He attended the Bethany Nazarene College and Oklahoma University. He worked in business and sales, associated with Barnett's Home Furnishings in early years and with Akin Brothers Floor World in the latter. He was a 45 year member of the Bethany Kiwanis where he served as a past Lieutenant Governor of the OK-TX district. Across the years Jerry enjoyed life to the fullest. In his younger years he traveled to many places in the world, he played league basketball and bowled on a league team, later years he enjoyed watching sports as an avid fan. He enjoyed being at the lake, boating, fishing and most of all, making times at the lake fun for all the family. He was famous for his brisket and for his prayers at family gatherings. He was a man of God and in his later years read the Bible all the way through at least 5 times. A faithful member of the Bethany First Church of the Nazarene and the Get Real Sunday School Class. Known for his generosity, optimistic outlook, and his enthusiastic smile, Jerry was a salt of the earth type of man, and his strength of character impacted all who knew him. He was a true family man--a faithful husband, a dedicated father, and a doting "Pops." Jerry is survived by his wife of 25 years, Jeanne Akin; his children, Julie (Jason) Hamilton, Jerry, Jr., and Richelle (Ron) Atkins; by grandchildren--whom he truly adored, April and Connor Hamilton, John Patrick and Blake Akin, and Avery and Ayden Atkins; two brothers, Harold and Jack Akin, and brother-in-law, Jim Fields. He is survived by numerous extended family members and a host of friends that were dear to him. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Kenneth; sisters, Helen Akin and Betty Fields; sisters-in-law, Jann and Sally Akin; and his beloved son, Richie Akin. Viewing will begin at 11 a.m., with the family greeting friends 6-8 p.m., Sunday, November 10, 2013, at Mercer-Adams Funeral Service. Services will be held 2 p.m. Monday, November 22, 2013, at the Bethany First Church of the Nazarene, 6789 N.W. 39th Expressway, with interment following in the Bethany Cemetery. To share a memory or condolence, visit www.mercer-adams.com.

Published in The Oklahoman, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Sunday, November 10, 2013, Section Metro and State, Page 27A and Mercer-Adams Funeral Home.