Akins Funeral Home

01/07/2026

Bernice Opal Riggs, age 91 of Russellville, passed away Tuesday, January 6, 2026 at home surrounded by her loving family.

She was born May 14, 1934 to WC and Lassie Gandy. Bernice was a kind spirited Christian who was proud to have her large family and many friends.

Visitation will be Saturday, January 10, 2025 from 12:00 Noon until 2:00 p.m.at Hopewell Church of Christ in the Lagrange Community, where the service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Burial will be in the adjoining cemetery. Pallbearers will be Marty Vandiver, Josh Smith, Jamie Smith, Tyler Smith, Farrell Hatton, and David Saint. Honorary pallbearer, Blake Gann.

Bernice is survived by her son, Billy Riggs; daughters, Joyce (Ray) Blaxton, Jean (Darryl) Swindle, Novise (Kenneth) Saint, Nita Gann, and Cathy Riggs; son in law, Charles Smith; brothers, Harvey Gandy and Jerry Gandy; sisters, Ray Richey, Louise Vandiver, Dorothy Hatton, Barbara Haygood, Fay (Cel) Perez, and Mattie (Jerry) Whitworth; 18 grandchildren; 42 great grandchildren; 31 great-great grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James Carl Riggs; parents, W.C. and Lassie Gandy; son, James Harold Riggs; daughter, Linda Smith; son in law, Leroy Gann; grandsons, Jason Smith and James G. Riggs; great grandson, Kyle Saint; brother, Richard Gandy; and sisters, Sue Hallmark and Brenda Hill.

Memories and condolences may be shared at akinsfh.com.

https://www.akinsfh.com/obituaries/bernice-riggs

Bernice was born on May 14th, 1934 and passed away on January 6th, 2026 at the age of 91

01/04/2026

We are proud to be Russellville, Alabama’s ONLY locally owned and family operated funeral home.

Call us at 256-332-1131

www.akinsfh.com

12/26/2025

Julia Gail Glenn, age 62, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 21, 2025, at Terrace Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Russellville, Alabama.

Julia was a gentle soul with a heart full of compassion. She had a deep love for animals and an even deeper love for people. Known for her kindness and generosity, Julia was the kind of person who would give the shirt off her back to help someone in need. To those who knew her, she was a faithful friend, a listening ear, and a steady source of comfort. Her life was rooted in her Christian faith, and she loved Jesus with all her heart, finding peace and strength in her beliefs.

She leaves behind cherished memories in the hearts of her daughter, Jodie (Justin) Rumble; her beloved grandchildren, Michael, Matthew, Isabelle, and Mason, who brought her great joy; her special nephew, Jeffrey Vandiver; and her sisters, Janice (B.B.) McCalpin, Jennie (David) Petree, and June Vandiver. She is also lovingly remembered by her niece, Jennifer, and her nephews, Jared and Jason, along with many extended family members and friends who will forever carry her love with them.

Julia was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Faye Glenn.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the caring staff of Terrace Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, to Nurse Lauren with Hospice of North Alabama, and to her dear friend Tonya, whose compassion, kindness, and presence meant more than words can express during Julia’s final days.

Julia was born on August 8th, 1963 and passed away on December 21st, 2025 at the age of 62

12/26/2025

Leila Moore, age 86, of Phil Campbell, Alabama, passed away on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at North Alabama Medical Center. She was born on June 18, 1939, to Alvin and Flora Baker.

Leila enjoyed traveling and was known for her selfless, generous, kind, loving, and gentle spirit. She often showed her love through food and acts of kindness, always caring for others before herself.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at Akins Funeral Home in Russellville, Alabama, from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m., with the funeral service to follow at 1:00 p.m. Burial will be in Blue Springs Cemetery in the East Franklin community.

Leila is survived by her sons, Kenneth Lee Moore and Allen Buford Moore; grandchildren, Lora (Jeremy) Clark, Justin Wade Brannon, and Kristin Wallace; great-grandchildren, Makayla Jones, Alex Jones, Daniel Wade Brannon, Xander Trae Brannon, and Jordan Wallace. She is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Herman Moore; her parents, Alvin and Flora Baker; her son, Jimmy Alvin Moore; her daughter, Sandra Kay Moore; and her great-granddaughter, Lauren Wallace.

Memories and condolences may be shared at akinsfh.com.

https://www.akinsfh.com/obituaries/leila-moore

Leila was born on June 18th, 1939 and passed away on December 20th, 2025 at the age of 86

12/19/2025

Please use the link below to view Mr. Smith’s full memorial page:

https://akinsfh.com/obituaries/tony-smith-dec-2025

Tony Smith, age 67, of the East Franklin Community, passed away on Wednesday, December 18th, 2025, at Helen Keller Hospital in Sheffield.

Tony loved Alabama football and always looked forward to every game. He loved his community and was always ready to lend a helping hand when he could. To know him was to love him. Tony will be greatly missed by many.

Visitation will be held Monday December 22nd, 2025, from 12:00 Noon until 1:00 P.M. at Akins Funeral Home in Russellville, Alabama where the service will be held at 1:00 P.M. Brother William Borden will officiate. Burial will be at Union Hill Cemetery, East Franklin Community.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Theresa Smith; sister, Susan Behel; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Anthony is preceded in death by his mother, WillaDean Smith; father, Lyndon Smith; and brother, Tim Smith.

The family would like to thank Bob and Jeanne Maggerise for their kindness and guidance. They loved Tony and he loved them. Tony worked for Bob for around 20 years; he has been an awesome influence on Tony. Thank you, Willie Cummings, for letting Tony hang out at your store. Special thanks to Winston County Home & Health for making sure his needs were met.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.

Memories and condolences may be shared at akinsfh.com

Tony was born on November 28th, 1958 and passed away on December 18th, 2025 at the age of 67

12/11/2025

Nadien Madge Frederick, age 98, of Hackleburg, Alabama, passed away on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. Nadien was born on February 7, 1927, to George and Rubel Evans.

Nadien Frederick was called to her heavenly home on December 10, 2025. She left us peacefully at the remarkable age of 98. A proud member of the world’s greatest generation, Nadien lived a life defined by resilience, kindness, and devotion to others. Born into a time of great challenge and change, Nadien embodied the strength and selflessness characteristic of her generation. She was most at home in the kitchen, where she poured love into every meal she prepared. Cooking was not simply a talent she possessed, but a gift she shared freely—her way of nurturing, comforting, and bringing people together. Nadien was also an avid quilter, finding joy and meaning in the art of stitching together pieces of fabric to create something warm, beautiful, and lasting. Her quilts—each one crafted with patience and care—became treasured keepsakes for those she loved. Whether serving family, friends, or neighbors, Nadien expressed her generosity through acts both simple and profound. She touched countless lives with her gentle spirit, her steady presence, and her unwavering commitment to caring for others. Her legacy endures in the traditions she passed on, the memories she created, and the love she infused into her family and community. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives were brightened by her.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at First Baptist Church of Hackleburg, Alabama, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. where the service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Burial will be at Cedar Tree Cemetery in Hackleburg, Alabama. Brother Justin Trulove and Brother Sam Morgan will officiate. pallbearers will be Bo Taff, Matt Frederick, Trevor West, Eli West, Andrew Brackin, Matt Lyle, Alfred Pickens, Eric Baker.

She is survived by her son, Kenneth (Donna) Frederick; daughters, Deb (James) Taff and Beverly (Keith) West; daughter-in-law, Gwen Frederick; sister, Shirley Reeves; grandchildren, Brandi (Alfred) Pickens, Leah (Matt) Lyle, Dara (Eric) Baker, Matt (Savannah) Frederick, Bo (Karen) Taff, Jodi (Andrew) Brackin, Trevor (Kristen) West, and Eli West; great-grandchildren, Brayden Pickens, C**t Lyle, Maddie (Tyler) Harris, Drew Williams, Mason Williams, Mattilynn Frederick, Mia Frederick, Alivia Taff, Aiden Taff, Ruby Brackin, Hadley Brackin, Ava West, Griffin West, and Maddox West; special family, Lynn Trulove and family, and a host of nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.

Nadien is proceeded in death by her parents George and Rubel Steel Evans; husband, Edward Frederick; son, Randall Frederick; grandson, Drew Frederick; brothers, Oneal Evans, Donald Evans, Owens Evans; sisters, Helen Wilson, Annie Jo Evans.

Memories and condolences may be shared at akinsfh.com

https://www.akinsfh.com/obituaries/nadien-frederick

11/11/2025

We pause today to honor our veterans. God bless all of you who have served our country.

“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13 KJV

10/27/2025

Lesha Irene Pennington passed away at her home surrounded by her family on Friday, October 24, 2025, after a lengthy illness.

She was a devoted Christian who loved her Lord Jesus Christ who she often referred to as her "Prince of Peace". She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Littleville, where she served the children there at every opportunity. Lesha had a strong and courageous spirit, even in the midst of all the battles she faced. She found hope in the scripture Joshua 1:9: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you.”

The love of her life was her husband, Jeff. He was her lifeline here on this earth, and she often spoke of her deep love for him. Her grandchildren were her light—they could brighten even the darkest days. Lesha was an avid sports fan and could often be found cheering on her favorite football team, Alabama. It’s been said that the neighbors could hear her joyful “Roll Tide!” on game days. She also loved her precious dog, Gunner, who was always by her side.

Lesha is survived by her loving husband, Jeff Pennington; brother, Cass Davis; daughter, Ashley (Adam) Godsey; son, Chase Pennington; grandchildren, Aubreigh, Adleigh, Ryder, Emberly, and Wilder; and special nephew, Will Tharp. She is also survived by her dear friends, Trish and Benne Tharp, who were by her side and whom she cared for deeply.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Dorthy “Dot” Davis.

The family would like to extend a special thank-you to everyone who helped Lesha and her family through this difficult time. They would also like to thank the First Baptist Church of Littleville for all the prayers, meals, and visits. Everyone who was there for Lesha will always hold a special place in the hearts of her family.

Memories and condolences may be shared at akinsfh.com

https://www.akinsfh.com/obituaries/lesha-pennington

Lesha was born on May 15th, 1966 and passed away on October 24th, 2025 at the age of 59

10/15/2025

Jerry Wayne Inmon, age 74 passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at Cypress Cove Nursing Center.

Jerry was born March 24, 1951, to Lee Wilson and Merry Luciel Inmon. He enjoyed playing football in his earlier years of life. Jerry also loved watching and cheering on his favorite football teams in his later years.

He is survived by his wife Flossie Christine Inmon; brother, Micheal Inmon; children Tenna Christine (Jason) Simpson, Amanda Christine Nix; grandchildren Nicholas Williams, Alexander Smith, Alanah Smith, Abbigail Nix. Jerry is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews.

Jerry was preceded in death by his father, Lee Wilson Inmon; mother, Mary Lucille Inmon; brothers, Jackie Inmon, James Inmon; sisters, Mary Lee Grissom, Daisy McCurley.

Memories and condolences may be shared at akinsfh.com

https://www.akinsfh.com/obituaries/jerry-inmon

Jerry was born on March 24th, 1951 and passed away on October 11th, 2025 at the age of 74

10/10/2025

Stephen Lorenzo Overton, age 66 of Marion County passed away on Sunday, October 5, 2025.

Stephen was born December 11, 1958, to Lorenzo Overton and Marie Nichols Mrock. He had a deep love for the outdoors and could often be found with a fishing pole in hand or out in the woods enjoying a quiet morning hunt. Known affectionately as “Country Boy” by his family and friends, he truly lived up to the name humble, hardworking, and happiest whenever outdoors. Whether casting a line on his favorite creek or tracking through the woods, he found peace in nature’s beauty. His love for fishing and hunting was more than a pastime; it was a way of life he proudly shared with those he loved.

A graveside service along with the burial will be held Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at Overton Farm Cemetery in Hodges, Alabama beginning at 1:00 P.M.

He is survived by his mother Marie Mrock (Hewitt Johnston); Sisters, Jan-Marie Williams (Danny), Patricia Montgomery (Scott). Stephen was also survived by numerous nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

Stephen was preceded in death by his father, Lorenzo Overton; paternal grandparents, Joe and Zora Overton; maternal grandparents, Oliver and Ela Nichols.

Memories and condolences may be shared at akinsfh.com

https://www.akinsfh.com/obituaries/stephen-overton

Stephen was born on December 11th, 1958 and passed away on October 5th, 2025 at the age of 66

10/04/2025

https://www.akinsfh.com/obituaries/tanner-swann

Tanner Swann, age 27, passed away on Thursday, October 2, 2025 at North Alabama Medical Center. He was born on December 12, 1997 to Marty Swann and Michelle Rideout.

Tanner enjoyed going bass fishing with his friends at “fish-thirty” as he called it. He also enjoyed spending time gaming with his friends online. Tanner loved his family and friends very much.

Survivors include his mother, Michelle Rideout (Stevie); brother, Levi Rideout; sister, Tosha Hensley (Travis); uncles, Joe Swann (Missy), Shane Swann (Jennifer), Brent Rideout (Tracy), and Randall Rideout (Patty); aunt, Dawn Swann (Jeff); nieces, Raylee and Avalynn; special friends that were more like brothers, Hunter Brown and Noah Graham; as well as many cousins, extended family, and friends.

Tanner was preceded in death by his father, Marty Swann; maternal parents, Bobby and Verlie Rideout; and paternal grandmother, Reba Swann.

A memorial service will be held at a later date on the river, where he enjoyed fishing so much.

Akins Funeral Home of Russellville, AL is assisting the family.

You are invited to share memories and leave condolences online at www.akinsfh.com.

Tanner was born on December 12th, 1997 and passed away on October 2nd, 2025 at the age of 27

09/26/2025

https://www.akinsfh.com/obituaries/mattie-taylor-2025

Mattie Taylor, age 83 of Russellville, Alabama passed away peacefully at her residence surrounded by her loving family, September 25, 2025.

Mattie was born to Robert and Minnie Franks January 3, 1942. She enjoyed tending to her flowers, mountain vacations, cooking, and canning. Mattie was a member of Macedonia Baptist Church.

A visitation will be Sunday, September 28, 2025 at Macedonia Baptist church from 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. where the funeral service will be at 3:00 p.m. Burial will be at Macedonia Baptist Church Cemetery. Brother Nick McSpadden will officiate.

Pallbearers will be Evan Mixon, Denver Mixon, John Mixon, Tony Riley, Rodney Franks, Mike Franks, and Jimmy Dale Seay.

Mattie is survived by her husband of 62 years, Gene Taylor; daughters, Sherry (Tony) Riley, Anissa (John) Mixon; grandchildren, Evan Mixon, Denver Mixon; and a host of nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Minnie Dale Franks; and brothers, Ray Franks, Billy Franks, and Dee Franks.

Memories and condolences may be shared at akinsfh.com

Mattie was born on January 3rd, 1942 and passed away on September 25th, 2025 at the age of 83