“For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21)
Harriett Jean “Jean” Akin passed from this life in Nashville, Tennessee, trusting the promise of eternal rest in Jesus. Her steady walk with the Lord shaped every part of her 87 years, and her hope now rests secure in His presence.
Raised in Nashville, she carried her East Senior High cheerleader spirit far beyond graduation. That same bright energy later guided her through David Lipscomb College, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in 1960 and formed friendships she tended with lifelong care.
In 1967 Jean became Director of the Foster Grandparent Program at Senior Citizens Inc./50Forward, listening patiently to each senior and celebrating every small victory. Her caring leadership there reflected her belief that every person deserved to be seen and valued.
Jean greeted life with open arms and gentle compassion. Her kindness showed in quiet moments-an encouraging smile, a warm plate of food, a steady hand on a friend’s shoulder.
Jean’s kitchen was a place of welcome. She prepared dressing, Vidalia onion pie, and her famous MacAdoo fudge cake, laying out special china so family and friends felt honored at her table.
Her joyful spirit reached stadiums as well; season tickets kept her cheering on the Titans with the same enthusiasm she once brought to pep rallies. Travels to the beach and Switzerland, poetry written for special occasions, and endless laughter at family gatherings all showed her love for life’s simple gifts.
Jean taught ladies’ classes at Riverside Drive and Kemper Heights churches of Christ, offering thoughtful lessons and steady faith. Her Christian example encouraged many to grow in faith. Though she had no children of her own, she poured boundless love into her nieces and nephews, celebrating their every step, and extending that passion to the next generations.
We will remember Jean’s kind gestures and supportive words, knowing those small acts continue to echo in our lives. Her legacy of kindness guides us forward, gently urging us to notice others, share a meal, and cheer a little louder.
Those who have passed on before are her parents Charles Fred Akin and Pauline Estelle Head Akin, brother Billy Akin, and special friend, Tommy Holder.
She is survived by sister-in-law Shirley King Akin; nephew, David (Kelly) Akin and niece, Dawn (Gary) Whittaker; grandnephews and grandnieces, Drew (Caitlin) Akin, Drake (fiancée Jenn) Akin, Demi (Reed) Keener, and Derek Akin; great-grandnephew, Brooks Keener.
Special thank you to her caregivers at NHC Sumner Place, specifically her nurses, Billie, Brandon, Delaney, and Jeremy.
Arrangements entrusted to Spring Hill Funeral Home and Cemetery, 5110 Gallatin Pike, Nashville, TN 37216, 615-865-1101, https://www.springhillfh.com.
This obituary was published by Spring Hill Funeral Home & Cemetery – Nashville.
This obituary was published by Obituaries provided free for the community.
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