Akers, Leonard Jackson
Leonard Jackson (Jack) Akers, 93, 0f Christiansburg, VA died at his home on Friday, July 9, 2021. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 70 years, Louise Jones Akers, parents, George Leonard Akers and Blanche Myers Akers, brothers, Freddie Akers and Harold Akers, and son-in-law, George N. Porterfield, Jr.
He is survived by his son, Leonard Barry Akers and his wife Donna, and granddaughter, McKenzie Akers of Christiansburg; as well as his daughter, Cindy Porterfield, and husband Jim Hawley of Christiansburg; granddaughter, Dr. Carrie Porterfield Neal and husband, Dr. Jeff Neal; and great-grandchildren Emma, George, and Jackson Neal of Hickory, NC; granddaughter, Dr. Katie Porterfield Collins and husband, Adam Collins; and great grandchildren, Porter and Louisa Collins of Mooresville, NC. He is also survived by his sister, Janice Jones of Christiansburg, and three sisters-in-law, Martha Akers, Bobbi Akers, and Sylvia Jones.
Jack was of the Greatest Generation, proudly serving his country as a quartermaster in the U.S. Navy in the Pacific Theater from 1945 – 46. After returning from the war, he worked his way up to the position on manager at Leggett department store, where he interacted with and influenced employees and members of the community for over 50 years. Jack served faithfully as a deacon and member of Main Street Baptist Church, and was dedicated to civic duties, serving on the Grand Jury and zoning board, and influencing downtown development of Christiansburg for seven decades. He also enjoyed many years of golf and friendship at both Round Meadow and Auburn Hills golf courses.
Jack will always be remembered for his tireless devotion to his wife, children, and grandchildren, his intellect, sense of humor, and interest in his community and its generations of families. He was blessed with the help of loving caregivers Lesley and Shannon, and Kayla and Brittany from Good Samaritan Hospice.
A graveside service honoring his life and military service will be held on Saturday, July 17, 2021 at 2:00 pm at Sunset Cemetery. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.hornefuneralservice.com.
July 11, 2021 @ 10:19 pm
Jack was my first “boss” at Leggett in Christiansburg and was a wonderful man and almost neighbor (1 street away). He was to be respected and loved. And to read of his passing.