Richard Henry Akers Sr.

Richard Henry Akers, Sr., lovingly known as "Big Rich," was born in Tappahannock, Virginia on May 17, 1938. He grew up in Tappahannock before moving to Baltimore, Maryland, where he began a lifetime of hard work, love, and service to his family and community. Rich peacefully transitioned from this earthly life on Monday, December 23, 2024, at 7:40 AM, while in the care of Orchard Hill Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center. A man of determination and passion, Richard started working at a young age, pursuing his calling as a meat cutter. Over the years, he honed his craft with well-known markets like Pantry Pride and Giant, where his dedication earned him numerous accolades, including his promotion to manager. Meat cutting wasn’t just a job for Richard; it was his passion and a symbol of his work ethic. He retired from Giant in 2009 after 50 years of excellence but never stopped working. It was at Roth Meat Market in 1959 that he met the love of his life, June Faye Spence. Their love story blossomed into 62 years of marriage, built on mutual devotion and respect, and became the foundation of their shared legacy. They were united in Holy Matrimony on February 3, 1963. "Big Rich" would lovingly and proudly proclaim that "An angel sent her (June) to me. "We fell in love at first sight and the 62 years haven’t been the same since”. he described. To this union one child was born, Richard H. Akers, Jr. Rich and June Faye joined New Shiloh Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend Dr. Harold Carter, Sr. The family was the cornerstone of Richard's life. A big jokester, he loved having his weekends with his grandkids. Their trips to Walmart and Golden Corral were often the highlight. He took immense pride in playing chauffeur to his beloved girls, Faye and Rishell, fondly referring to them as “his little ladies.” He never hesitated to drive them wherever they wanted, as long as his trusty GPS was by his side. A car enthusiast, Richard frequently changed vehicles, always searching for is next luxury ride. Richard's love and devotion extended beyond his immediate family to his community and friends. His commitment to service and his ability to create joy in the simplest moments left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. Outside of his career, Rich was a jack-of-all-trades with a love for building, fixing, and experimenting with the latest gadgets. With an elementary education, he taught himself various trades and tackled projects of all kinds. If it couldn’t be built, he found the solution – often during trips to his favorite store, Home Depot. Among life’s simple joys, Richard had a special love for ice cream-Butter Pecan, to be exact. He delighted in this treat, often sharing his enthusiasm for it with those he loved. Richard was preceded in death by his sister, Lucille Wees, his cherished wife, June Faye Spence-Akers, and a multitude of other family and friends. After sharing 62 years of marriage filled with laughter, devotion, and countless memories, their earthly separation was only temporary. Now, they are joyfully reunited, dancing hand in hand in eternity, their love story continuing in the heavens where it began-with an unshakable bond that even time could not break. Left to cherish his fond memories are his son: Richard H. Akers, Jr. (Erika Akers); his granddaughters: Taylor Magginson and Leah Rishell Akers-Wilson (Michael Wilson, III); his grandsons: Warren Gatewood and Richard H. Akers III; his great-grandsons: Taj Womack and Jyzir Stewart; three sisters-in-law: Theresa Williams (Tyrone Williams) Annie Gardner (William Gardner), and Marietta Towsend (Kenneth Townsend Sr.); a brother-in-law: Clement Spence (Sylvia Spence); a devoted former daughter-in-love: Shellae Akers; and a host of other nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts. Richard’s legacy is one of hard work, love for the family, and a zest for life’s simple joys. His infectious smile, deep laugh, and generous spirit will be missed by all who him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Tributes

Richard Henry Akers Sr.

May 17, 1938 - December 23, 2024