Benjamin Franklin Akers Sr.

Benjamin Franklin Akers Sr., age 84, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, November 1, 2018. A son of John Wesley and Bessie (Prater) Akers, he was born at Gladden, Mo. on June 17, 1934. Ben served in the Army between 1957 and 1959. Upon his return home, he married Minnie Harris on June 6, 1959 in Fulton, Mo. Together, they had seven children and lived in the Callaway County, Mo. area for many years. Ben worked in timber all his life. During the 1970s, he worked on the bridge crew as a mechanic and welder for Callaway County. He started Akers Lumber with his nephew, Johnny, in the 1980s. He enjoyed being able to work and had a passion for farming. He loved to read, put together puzzles and tell stories. He never met a stranger. In addition to people, Ben had a way with his mules. He used them to cut hay, go on nights of coon hunting and many other adventures. He was knowledgeable about anything mechanical and would not quit until solved the problem. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He will truly be missed. He is survived by his wife, Minnie; sister, Hazel Gerrard of New Bloomfield, Mo.; sons, Kenny and wife Lesa of Fulton, Mo., Ben and wife Karen Akers and Clint and wife Sarah of Licking, Mop.; daughters, Cathy Love and husband Robert of Kingdom City, Mo., Roxie Smith and husband Jeff, and Chris Conner and husband Dan of Fulton, Mo.; grandchildren, Bradley Love, Jennifer Akers, Justin Akers, Jacob Smith, Carrie Brawley, Carla Elliott, Cameron Akers, Paige Akers; and great-grandchildren, Aleigha Brawley, Alivia Brawley, Westin Elliott, Kaleb Elliott and Finleigh Akers. Ben was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Ruby Wells; brothers, Edward, Tom, Bill and John; daughter, Loretta Akers; and infant grandson, Joshua Love. Visitation services are scheduled at Fox Funeral Home in Licking, Mo. for Monday, November 5 from 6-8 p.m. and funeral will be officiated by Pastor Darius Wentz on Tuesday, November 6, 2018 at 10 a.m. Pallbearers are Bradley Love, Justin Akers, Jacob Smith, Cameron Akers, Austin Elliott, Kyle Akers and Jason Akers. Honorary pallbearers are Stan Shelton and Jim Huff. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Disabled American Veterans.