Akers, Robert L.

Msgt. Robert L. Akers, United States Army, Retired, 77, of Pulaski, Va., died on Saturday, October 17, 2009, at his home after a long and courageous battle with COPD and bone cancer.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Arthur “Swifty” and Louie “Granny” Akers; brothers, Junior Akers, Clay Akers, James Akers, and Dan Akers; and sisters, Lillian Bradford, Mildred Neil, and Pauline Marshall.

“Sarge” was a 22 year veteran who served his country in Korea and Vietnam. He received many commendations and medals including GCMDL (3), AFEM (4), Good Conduct (4), Civil Actions Honor Medal (1st Class) and the Bronze Star Medal. He enjoyed fishing, watching old westerns, NASCAR, Redskins football and Bluegrass Music.

Robert is survived by his loving companion, Rosalee Davis; son and daughter-in-law, Mike and Vicky Akers; daughters and sons-in-law, Brenda and Scott Farmer, Mary Ann and David White, and Wanda and Roger Stowers; stepchildren, Markie and Janice Trivett, and Sandy Trivett; brothers and sister-in-law, Claude Akers, Jack and Violet Akers, and Doug Akers; grandchildren, Amber and Coty Akers, Neil and Dwight Farmer, Kayla and Michelle White, and Grace Stowers; stepgrandchildren, Candice and Aaron Long, Jason and Matthew Trivett, Sheri Dean, and Chris Dunagan; seven greatgrandchildren, Damian, Mason and Braydon Fowlkes, Jaidyn Bain, Rozalyn McPeak, Noah Litton and Lexi Dunagan; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. on Wednesday, October 21, 2009, at Abundant Life Ministries, 3050 Lee Highway N., Pulaski, with the Rev. Mike Akers officiating. Military Rites will be conducted by Pulaski VFW Post #1184. The family will receive friends immediately following the memorial service. Reese Funeral Home, Austinville, Va., is in charge of arrangements.