Akers, Donald Sonny
With deep love and gratitude for a life well lived, we remember Donald “Sonny” Akers, affectionately known to many as “Paw Paw,” who departed this world on June 22, 2026, in White Sulpher Springs, West Virginia. Born on September 13, 1941, Sonny’s 84 years were marked by constant devotion to his family, loyalty to friends, and a warmth that uplifted every space he entered.
Sonny’s legacy is so much more than the years he spent on this earth; it lives on in each member of his beloved family. His daughters—Connie Bruffey, Tina Hanna, and Marie Hungate—carry his spirit in their laughter, their stories, and their enduring bravery, built upon his tender encouragement and steady hand. He was a father-in-law cherished by Walt, Christopher, and Michael, whose affection for him is a testament to Sonny’s open heart.
Nothing brought Sonny more pride than watching his family grow. His grandchildren— Brandon Hungate, Abby Newman, Savannah Bruffey, Logan Schack, Hayden Schack, Tyler Robinette, Peyton Robinette —knew him as both a gentle confidant and a firm supporter, quick to share wisdom and humor. Great-grandchildren Ava Hungate, Reece Newman, and Tessa Newman brought him endless joy, their bright futures a living promise of his lasting influence. Along with bonus grandchildren Taylor Carroll, Jerry Newman, Kristy Hungate, Regan Campbell and Haley Gibson.
Among his siblings, Sonny found lifelong friendship and camaraderie. He is survived by his sisters Annetta Moles, Eloise Minnick, and Phyllis Meredith, along with his brother Phillip Akers. Deep familial ties also united him with his brothers- and sisters-in-law: Kenneth, Debbie, Johnny, Jean Akers, and Paul Marshall. Their cherished sibling bonds endured across years and miles, grounding all in a sense of unity and love.
Though he is now reunited with those who went before him—his loving mother Dot Akers, devoted father Hess Akers, dearest brother Buck Akers, sister Loretta Marshall, and brothers-in-law Buck Minnick, Pete Sowers, and Son in law Derick Crouse—their memory is gently threaded through his life; a foundation of affection and support upon which he built his own legacy.
Sonny’s caring extended warmly beyond the human members of his family. At the home of the Hannas, he held a special place in his heart for their pets—Birdy, Wedgie, and Steve. Each will receive treats in his honor, a small but affectionate tribute to how Sonny found companionship and delight in their presence.
Those who knew Sonny “Paw Paw” Akers remember a man of steadfast values, gentle humor, and unwavering kindness. Whether sharing stories, providing counsel, or simply sitting quietly with a loved one, Sonny exuded a comforting presence that will be deeply missed but fondly remembered—a presence that continues to echo in the lives of his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, and friends.
Pawpaw loved everyone that he met. He would end almost every conversation with, “You know I love ya.” He never met a stranger. He loved all the students he met through the apartments-even when they upset him by damaging something, he was the first one to help. He loved animals, often feeding the feral cats around his house, and he shared his love of animals with his daughters, which is why they have so many pets now. Even when it was hard for him to get up and move around, he would give treats to Tina’s dogs when they whined at the door. He never stopped giving or worrying about the ones around him. We want to hear more stories like this later and can’t wait to hear about all of the trouble he got into… he didn’t get his nickname of being a little Sour Patch Kid for no reason.
The family wishes to express a special thanks tp the cashiers at Food Lion, and the Dollar Store who took special care of Sonny. Also a warm thank you to Sonny’s Hospice nurses that took great care of Sonny in his waning days. The local college students that loved Sonny also are appreciated greatly.
A wonderful way to remember Sonny’s legacy would be to be a great Pawpaw, pay it forward, and give someone a hug.
A graveside service in celebration of Sonny’s life will be held on June 26, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Roselawn Memorial Gardens, 2880 North Franklin Street, Christiansburg, VA 24073. Following the graveside service there will be a small gathering at Park United Methodist Church at 3pm. All who wish to honor Sonny’s memory are welcome as we gather to say both a grateful farewell and an enduring thank you for his steady love and kindness.
As we mourn the passing of Donald Sonny “Paw Paw” Akers, we hold fast to the ties of love he so gently wove, trusting that his spirit lives on—in every fond recollection, every future gathering, and the hearts of those who cherish him always.
