Terry Allen Akins, 71
August 3, 1954 – September 12, 2025
It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, brother, Pawpaw, and friend to so many, Terry Allen Akins. A lifelong resident of Ripley, Mississippi, Terry entered into his Heavenly rest at the age of 71, on Friday morning, September 12, 2025, at his home in Tippah County, surrounded by love.
Funeral Services honoring Terry’s life will be held at 3:00 PM on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, in the Heritage Chapel of the Ripley Funeral Home, with Bro. Wayne Cobb and Bro. Chris Lewellen officiating. Visitation will be from 12:00 PM until service time on Tuesday, at the Ripley Funeral Home.
Born on August 3, 1954, Terry was the cherished son of the late Noal and Opal Morgan Akins. He grew up in Ripley, received his education from Ripley High School, and built a career as a skilled diesel mechanic. For twenty-five years, he faithfully worked for Hill Brothers Construction, where his strong work ethic and expertise earned the respect of all who knew him.
On May 31, 1975, Terry married the love of his life, Carol Waldon Akins, who survives him. Together, they built a beautiful life over the course of fifty years, rooted in love, laughter, and unshakable devotion. They were blessed with two precious children, Josh “Butterbean” Akins and Alicia Lynn Akins, who both preceded him in death and who forever remained treasures of his heart.
Terry lived a life filled with passion and simple joys. He loved NASCAR—especially cheering for his favorite driver, Dale Earnhardt—watching westerns, hunting, and fishing. Known for his playful sense of humor, he found joy in teasing, joking, and even scaring those closest to him, leaving behind countless memories of laughter. Family was always at the center of his life; as nothing worried him more than if his loved ones didn’t answer his calls, because he never stopped checking in on those he cared for. To his grandchildren, he was not just “Pawpaw” but a steady source of love, laughter, and pride, and they filled the deepest spaces of his heart.
Terry’s loving presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Yet, we find comfort in knowing that his earthly suffering is over, and he has been completely healed. Today, he is joyfully reunited with his two beloved children in Heaven, the ones he loved so dearly and missed so deeply. His legacy of love, laughter, and devotion will live on in the hearts of his family and friends forever.
In addition to his faithful wife, Mrs. Carol, memories will continue to be shared by four grandchildren, Kylei Akins, Talen Yates, Paisleigh Yates, and Ryder Yates, three great grandchildren, Colton Clay, Waylon Clay, and Kashtyn Yates, three sisters, Lillian Smith, Judy Holland, and Penny Daniels, and two brothers, Randy Akins, and Mike Akins, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in laws, and friends.
He is also preceded in death by two sisters, Nancy Akins and Mary Wilkerson, two brothers, Benny Akins and Noal Akins Jr, and his stepfather, Joe Earl Little.
Ripley Funeral Home invites you to share memories.
Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.
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Visitation
Tuesday
September 16, 2025
12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral
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Funeral Service
Tuesday
September 16, 2025
3:00 PM
Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral
