John Wayne "Buddy" Akins, 88, of Greenwood, was welcomed into heaven early morning of Wednesday, January 24, 2024, where he was reunited with his bride of 66 years, the late Lorabel Friday Akins and numerous family members who had gone before him.

Born in Trion, Georgia, son of the late William Middleton Akins and Burma McCrickard Akins, he spent most of his youth in Ninety Six, SC. In 1953 he enlisted in the USAF where he served during the Cold War era. After discharge from the service, he moved his family back to SC where he worked for Greenwood Mills and later Kemet Electronics, until his retirement.

John was a devoted husband to wife Lori and a dedicated father to his five children instilling Christian values in all aspects of his life. He was known for his unwavering commitment to his family and the community. John was also known for his incredible ability to fix anything. His expertise in a myriad of areas extended far beyond his work and home responsibilities, as he selflessly lent a helping hand to neighbors and friends alike. A faith member of Callie Self Memorial Baptist Church, John served in numerous capacities in the church for as long as he was able to do so.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by his brother David, and son Keith Akins.
Surviving are his four daughters: Kathleen White (Clint Woods), Janis Lindsey (Randy), Susan Fleeman (Danny) and Ronda Akins. A great joy of his life was being a granddaddy to his five grandchildren: Scott Buist, Amber Hewitt, Tiffany Mullinax, Kirby Hopkins and Sawyer Akins; nine great grandchildren: Rhett, Kinley, Clover, Scarlett, Konner, Noah, Cera, Jaxon and LoraBelle; and one great-great grandson, Layton.
Services will be held at 2pm on Sunday, January 28, 2024, at Harley Funeral Home Chapel with Andrew Mullinax officiating. Burial will follow at Greenwood Memorial Gardens.

Pallbearers will be Scott Buist, Kirby Hopkins, Sawyer Akins, Rhett Green and Kinley Hopkins.

The family will receive friends from 1-2pm prior to the service at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of the Piedmont, 408 West Alexander Avenue, Greenwood, SC 29646 or to a charity of your choice.

Family members are at their respective homes.

Live Service Here: https://youtube.com/live/GIrISoOO-nM?feature=share