Freda Jo Akins, 92, of Jonesboro, formerly of Pocahontas, departed this life on Thursday, July 2, 2026.

Freda was born on October 11, 1934, to the late James W. Grissom and Mittie Huddleston Grissom. She was a talented beautician and the proud owner and operator of her own beauty shop, where she spent many years serving her community. Freda was of the Baptist faith.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James W. and Mittie Grissom; her beloved husband, Sanford Essmon Akins; her children, Virginia Devrian, Michael Akins, Sandford "Sandy" Akins, and Eddie Akins; her grandson, Michael Blount; seven brothers; and one sister.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her daughters, Brenda (Ron) Crossfield of Dixon, Missouri, Vickie (Scott) Gilmer of Jonesboro, Tina (Johnny) Yoshida of Portia, Arkansas, and Dawn Sones of Jonesboro; her sister, Nadine Burgess of Arnold, Missouri; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, with the funeral service beginning at 3:00 p.m. Joshua Dement will officiate. All services will be held in the McNabb Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow at Randolph Memorial Gardens.