Gladys Bowdoin Akins

Gladys Bowdoin Akins, born in Monroe County on March 3, 1928, passed away January 6, 2012. Her parents were Florence Amelia Byars Bowdoin and James Alfred Bowdoin. Mrs. Akins devoted her life to her family and her faith. She took great pleasure in working with young people as a youth leader and Bible School teacher, both before and after she had children in the programs. She was also known for the wonderful meals she prepared for the Midway Community Center and her church families. Mrs. Akins greatest passions were her family and her flowers. She loved the rain and the sunshine, and was never happier than when she was in her gardens. She often said that all she ever wanted was a pretty yard. She was surrounded by her family in her personal and professional life. She loved opening her home to friends and family, especially for her family fish fries and her Sunday dinners after church. Her coffee was always hot and her table was always open for anyone who wanted to fellowship with her and her family. Mrs. Akins graduated from Gordon Military High School. She met the love of her life, her husband J. Ralph Akins, while she lived in Barnesville, Georgia. They were married May 19, 1946, and celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary last year. Mrs. Akins is survived by her devoted husband, Ralph, and her daughters and sons-in-law Cheryl and Jim Matlock and Betty Anne and Billy Avery; her grandchildren Derek and Cathy George, Jamie and Dana Matlock, Jill and Stan Matlock-Carter, and Amelia George Alexander. She also shared her love with her great grandchildren Austin and Bryce Matlock and Chance, Jon Elliot and Westley Matlock-Carter. She also leaves her special caregivers, Milicent Crawford, Tease Crawford, Serena Favors, Natalie Goggins and Joyce Cleveland. She extended her love and friendship to a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who enriched her life with joy and companionship. In lieu of flowers, Mrs. Akins requested donations be made to the prayer garden at First Baptist Church of Griffin, P.O. Box 908, Griffin, GA 30224, Stepping Stones, 141 Futral Rd., Griffin, Ga. 30224 or Five Loaves and Two Fish Food Pantry, 215 East Slaton Ave, Griffin, GA 30223. Friends may visit the family between 5:00pm and 7:00 pm on Saturday, January 7, 2012 at the Conner-Westbury Funeral Home and other times at the Residence of Cheryl and Jim Matlock, 110 Green Acres Road, Griffin. A memorial service will be conducted at First Baptist Church, Griffin on Sunday, January 8, 2012 at 2pm. Dr. Bill Hardee will officiate.

Gladys Bowdoin Akins

March 3, 1928 - January 6, 2012