William Routherford Akery III, affectionately known as “Billy,” was born in Jacksonville, Florida, on April 27, 1944, to Wildred and William Akery II.
He grew up in a family of educators. A talented clarinetist and proud member of the Blue Devil marching band, Billy graduated from New Stanton High School in 1961 and then went on to study psychology at Florida A&M University, where he joined Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity and Army ROTC. After graduating in 1965, he continued his military journey with the Florida Army National Guard, later serving as a Professor of Military Science and various leadership roles, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1993 with 27 years of service. His teaching career spanned 41 years at various schools in Florida, Georgia, and Texas.
Along with civic organizational membership, he also became a Mason. Billy’s life was defined by his commitment to family, faith, education, and service to others. Billy will forever be a beloved husband, a devoted father and father-in-law, and a doting grandfather known as “Bibi” to his grandchildren.
He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and a wide circle of family and friends who cherish him dearly. Billy is survived by his wife, Kathleen Akery, daughter Dorothea LaChon Abraham, son-in-law Craig Abraham, and grandchildren, Dana, Danae, and Deana Abraham.
