Mr. John Renza “J.R.” Akers of McMinnville, TN passed away Saturday, June 28, 2025 at his home with his family by his side. He was born on April 05, 1944 in Nashville, TN, was a veteran of the U.S. Army, and was an associate engineer with Carrier Air Conditioning where he was employed for 33 years. After his retirement, John joined the staff of McMinnville Funeral Home for a number of years. A member of East End Church of Christ, John enjoyed hunting, and loved his family dearly. He was especially fond of family game night and beating his grandkids at Yahtzee. He was an avid sports fan, especially the Vols and had amazing adventures traveling with his wife on trips to Alaska, Europe, and Hawaii.
John is survived by his wife of 60 years, Joyce Malone Akers, son Tim Lorenza (Jessica) Akers, daughter Regina Westlake, brother Don Wayne Akers, sisters Collene Crumbley, Diann (Wayne) McMahan, and Pamela Akers, grandchildren Mason Westlake, Clayton Renza Akers, and Anagail Akers; along with several nieces, nephews, and family friends. Mr. Akers was preceded in death by his parents Lorenza Woodrow Akers and Mary Maggie Tanner Akers and his sisters Brenda Gayle Akers and Geri Akers.
Funeral service for John Akers is scheduled for 1:00 P.M. Wednesday, July 02, 2025 in the McMinnville Funeral Home Chapel. Garland Robinson will officiate. Interment will follow at Centertown Cemetery. Military Grave Rites will be administered by V.F.W. Post 5064 and American Legion Post 173. The Akers family will receive friends on Tuesday from 4:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. and again on Wednesday from 11:00 A.M. until the time of service at 1:00 P.M.
