Albany, MO: Frank Nelson Akers, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and community leader, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2024, at the age of 91. Born on September 16, 1933, on the family farm near Albany, Missouri, Frank was the son of William Corell Akers and Eunice (Kidwell) Akers. With the exception of his time in college and military service, Frank spent his entire life in Gentry County, becoming a cherished and familiar figure in the community.
Frank graduated from the University of Missouri with a degree in Agricultural Business, where he was a member of the Farmhouse Fraternity. His leadership and dedication earned him recognition as a charter member of the Agriculture Alumni Leadership Society for his service to the MU Ag Alumni Association and the College of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources.
In 1953, Frank married Elaine Dix of Mexico, Missouri, and together they raised three daughters: Carla Craven of Shawnee, KS; Sheryl Gossett (Don) of St. Joseph, MO; and Kammie Akers (David Parman) of Albany, MO.
Frank served his country as a pilot in the U.S. Air Force, flying B-47 bombers for the Strategic Air Command. He became a member of the prestigious “Caterpillar Club” after surviving a harrowing aircraft ejection during an instrument failure and subsequent stall during flight.
Following his military service, Frank returned to Gentry County to work alongside his father on the family farm, transitioning over time from dairy and row crop farming to beef cattle and crop operations. He also served on the board of the Gentry County Bank and later worked as a vice president and loan officer for 30 years. Additionally, Frank managed Comstock Farms, and always a versatile businessman, Frank and Elaine owned and operated Albany U-Store for many years. Frank enjoyed a long career as an appraiser across northwest Missouri, earning respect for his fairness, integrity, and expertise, and served as president of the Missouri Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers. He also earned the A.C. Burrows Service Award for his contributions to the United Electric Cooperative.
Faith was a cornerstone of Frank’s life. A lifelong member of the First Presbyterian Church of Albany, he played an active role in its congregation and leadership.
Known for his sharp wit and sense of humor, Frank had a knack for lightening any mood with a clever joke or unexpected remark. Many in the community treasure their “Frank stories,” moments that captured his playful nature and ability to bring joy to others.
Frank was a dedicated member of his community, serving as a lifelong member of the Albany Rotary Club, a member of the Chamber of Commerce, and a 70-year member of Athens Lodge 127. He also served on the Midland Empire Girl Scout Council and supported numerous other local causes. Frank’s legacy of service, humor, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.
Frank is preceded in death by his parents, William and Eunice Akers; in-laws, Roy and Ruth Dix; sister, Virginia and her husband, Ora Collier Jr.; sisters-in-law, Ruthmarie and her husband, Donald Woods and Sally and her husband, Fielding Wilson; and brother-in-law, Wendall Woody.
He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Elaine; their daughters, Carla, Sheryl, and Kammie; six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; sisters Ruth Woody and Mary Ann Lowary; sister-in-law Royan Meyer; and many nieces and nephews.
Memorial Service: 10:00 AM Saturday, December 7 at the First Presbyterian Church in Albany. Military Rites will follow the service at the church. Inurnment will be in the Grandview Cemetery at a later date. The family will receive friends 5:00 – 7:00 PM Friday evening at the Roberson-Polley Chapel in Albany.
The family kindly requests memorial contributions to the Fielding Wilson Scholarship in care of the Roberson-Polley Chapel, 403 N. Hundley, Albany, MO 64402.
Online condolences: www.robersonpolleychapel.com