James L. Akins, age 73, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, May 8, 2015, following an extended illness.

He was born in Hollywood, Ala. but lived most of his adult life in Selma. Better known as Jimmy to all who loved and knew him, he was the former owner-operator of Akins Plumbing Company, now controlled by his son, Mike.

Jimmy spent his life’s work in the plumbing industry and founded his company in the early 1980s.

Jimmy is survived by Jean, his wife of 53 plus years; a daughter, Lynne (Steve) Ray; a son, Mike Akins; two grandchildren, Jesse Akins and Whitney (David) Williams; and three great-grandchildren, Baleigh Williams, Kadyn Williams and Nari Akins. Mr. Akins also leaves behind one brother, three sisters, several brothers and sisters-in-law and a host of nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Buck and Stella Akins, of Hanceville.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday May 12, 2015, in the Chapel of Lawrence Brown-Service Funeral Home. The Rev. Tom Stacey of the Selma Baptist Association will officiate. Interment will follow at Pineview Memory Gardens. Visitation will be Monday from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home.

The family would like to express gratitude to the staff of Ascera Care for the care given during this very difficult time.

Please visit http://www.lawrencebrownservice.com to make online condolences to the family.