Cathy Akins passed away peacefully on March 31, 2026, at the age of 70. Born in Gurdon, Arkansas to the late R.T. and Estelle Alexander, Cathy was a dedicated military spouse to her loving husband Allen Sr., whose career took their family across the world with homes in Texas, Germany, Oklahoma, West Point, NY and finally North Carolina. Each place she lived became richer for her presence; it was the warmth she carried and the people she loved that made every place home.

Cathy was many things to many people, and her impact is difficult to put into words. She was more than a person, she was an experience: uplifting, and unforgettable in the way she made others feel, seen and valued. She was a loving sister, sister-in-law, mother, auntie, nana, niece, cousin and friend, always ready to lend a hand or offer encouragement with a smile. Her bright personality and sharp sense of humor could light up any room.

Cathy embraced life fully. She loved the beach, dancing, and when time permitted antiquing with her eldest sister Carolyn on their shared birthday. She found happiness in camping, fishing, and most of all spending cherished time with her family and friends. Cathy dedicated more than 20 years of service to VA hospitals before retiring, embodying a life of compassion, service, and quiet strength. She believed deeply that it was better to give than to receive, and her generosity, whether of time, care, or spirit, touched countless lives.

Even after retirement, Cathy continued to serve others, finding special joy and purpose working with memory care patients, where her patience and warmth made a lasting difference. Through every chapter of her journey, she was anchored by the deep and enduring love she shared with her beloved husband of 42 years. Together they built a life full of meaning, and though Cathy is no longer with us in body, her kind and loving spirit lives on in all who were blessed to know her.

Her generosity, laughter, and unwavering care for others will continue to be felt, forever held in the hearts and minds of those who knew and loved her. Cathy is survived by her husband, Allen Akins Sr.; her children, Shawn (Corneilius) Welcome and Allen Akins Jr.; her grandchildren, Noah Welcome, Alijah Akins, Mariah Akins, Bentley Akins, Gunner Akins; God-Grandchildren, Sherron Torain and Brittney Harris-Williams and her six siblings. She leaves behind not just a family, but a legacy of love that will echo through every life she has touched.

A Memorial and Celebration of life in her honor will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at Noon, Montlawn Funeral Home and Cremation Services 2911 S. Wilmington St. Raleigh, NC 27603