Loretta Alice Akin

Loretta Alice Wood Akin went to be with the Lord after a long battle with COPD and CHF, April 21, 2018, surrounded by her loving husband and three daughters. Loretta was born in Searcy Arkansas on June 14, 1946. She attended school in El Paso, Arkansas through the 3rd grade. She transferred to Beebe to attend school from the 4th grade until she graduated in 1964. Many of her classmates remained life-long friends. Loretta was known for her quick wit and love and she will be missed by many. She loved spending time with her devoted husband whom she affectionately called "Little Buddy." Her daughters and grandchildren were her pride and joy as she devoted her life to her family. She loved fishing, beautiful flowers, watching her husband garden, and to shop. She always said that "new" was her favorite color. When her children were young, she was a stay-at-home mom. During that time, she also babysat many neighborhood children, who loved her dearly and kept in contact with her over the years. After she raised her girls, she worked for many years using her exceptional skills as a seamstress for Ann's Bridal. She finished her working career as an employee of State of Arkansas at the Revenue office in Searcy. She retired to enjoy her home life with Buddy in 2011. She is proceeded in death by her parents, Noble Woodrow "Woody" and Opal Wood, and a brother and sister-in-law, Jerry and Pat Wood. Loretta is survived by her husband of 52 years, William "Buddy" Akin; three daughters, Shannon Todd (David) Judsonia, Ark., Kelli Kersey (Bo) Beebe, Ark., Angie Longing (Brian) Conway, Ark.; seven adoring grandchildren, Janey Wilkins (Jason), Elizabeth Wallace (Aaron), Zach Kersey (Tristan), Than Kersey, Chase Longing, Claire Longing, and Cate Longing; four precious great-grandchildren, Harvey Wilkins, Jack Kersey, Daley Kersey, and PeNellope Wilkins; three sisters, Judy Moore (Don), Patsy Edwards (Jerry), and Lawanda Harvey; and two sisters-in-law that were more like sisters, Carolyn Utley and Wanda Williams (Ken), and a host of nieces and nephews and many friends. Visitation will be Monday, April 22, 2018 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Union Valley Baptist Church. Funeral will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, April 23, 2018, also at the church. Burial will be in Beebe Cemetery. Arrangements by Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home. Arrangements by Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home, Beebe. www.SmithFamilyCares.com.