Gary Frank Akins

Gary Frank Akins, 64, of Longview passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 22, 2021, surrounded by family.

Gary was born July 14, 1956, in Longview, Texas, to Lucy and Hubert Akins. He attended Longview schools where he was a high school standout on the Lobo football field. Gary’s picture often graced the front of the Longview News sports page where he was known as “Hawk” because of his keen ability to seek out any offensive player with a jarring tackle.

Jumping into the work force at an early age, Gary worked in the family business, Holloway Furniture, for almost 50 years. If you ever stopped by the store you could find Gary working on advertising, taking care of one of his loyal customers, or holding court telling one of his (long) stories.

Always a sportsman, Gary developed a love of golf and was instrumental in organizing the first American Cancer Society Golf Tournament in the early 90's, serving as chairman for several years. He was a member of the Brady Hunting Club for many years, and one of his greatest joys was the annual hunting trip he took with his family over the Thanksgiving holiday.

Gary is predeceased in death by his mother, Lucy Akins. He is survived by his devoted wife, Kim, his children, Brad Akins, Brent Akins and wife, Ashley, Allison White and husband, Landon, Courtney Ramsey and husband, Allen, and Gary’s precious grandchildren, Tenley, Ace and Arey Akins. Gary is also survived by his father, Hubert Akins, and wife, Jane, his sister, Celia Elkins, and husband, David, and Gary’s niece, Lindsay Elkins Crenshaw.

The Akins Family gratefully acknowledges Dr. Larry Frase for his time, compassion, commitment and loving care.

Memorials may be made to Hiway 80 Rescue Mission, 3123 W. Marshall Avenue, Longview, Texas 75604, or to a charity of your choice.

Funeral services will be held Friday, May 28, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. at Welch Funeral Home.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 27, 2021, at the funeral home.