Wanda J. Akins

Wanda J. Akins, 84, of Kansas City, Missouri passed away peacefully on July 23, 2026. She was born on May 7, 1942, in Middle Springs, Arkansas, to Zebedee and Willie Brown, both of whom preceded her in death. She leaves behind three children; Leonard Brown, Rosiland Brown, and Darryl Akins. She is also remembered by her five granddaughters and three great-grandchildren.

Wanda’s life journey began in Middle Springs, where she was part of a large family with eleven siblings. At the age of 15, she experienced her first taste of Kansas City. However, she soon returned to Arkansas to complete her high school education before ultimately making Kansas City her permanent home in 1959. When she was settled into her new life in Kansas City, she joined the Palestine Baptist Church located at 3619 E. 35th St., Kansas City, MO.

Wanda devoted much of her professional life to working as a Security Guard for DTS, Inc. She would ensure that everything was in order and showed an immense amount of selflessness and respect not only to her company, but to others and their safety. During her down time and leading into retirement, she found joy in the stirring rhythms of Jazz, R&B, Soul, and the Blues. These sounds reflected her vibrant spirit and love for connection. She was well known for her fondness for playing cards, an activity that brought together friends and family, filling gatherings with laughter and friendly competition.

Wanda was only married once, to Mr. Henery Lee Akins, who preceded her in death in 2017. Wanda’s memory remains ever-present in the hearts of her surviving children and all those who shared in her life’s journey.