Marcia S. Minniear Akers

Marcia S. Minniear (Marty) Akers, 57, of Roanoke, Va., went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, January 13, 2010, after a long battle with breast cancer. She was a graduate of Rantoul High School, Illinois, and National Business College. She was a member of Martinsville Jaycees, previously served as financial aid coordinator; Hollins College, and Director of financial aid; Dominion Business School. Marty was an EMS Lieutenant working as volunteer firefighter with King County Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue. As a strong supporter of breast cancer awareness and prevention, she participated in Relay For Life, 2008 and 2009, and was a member of "Chemo Angels" and online supporter for those with cancer. With a deep passion for life she could brighten people's day just by entering a room. She was a wonderful Mother, Wife, Sister, Daughter, and Friend.

Marty was predeceased by her father, Harold Stehlik; and brother, Stan Stehlik. She is survived by her husband, Thomas E. Akers, of Roanoke; son, Heath Minniear, of Raleigh, N.C.; daughter, Heather Minniear, of Roanoke; stepdaughter, Katherine Akers Anderson (Jesse), of Baltimore, Md.; mother, Donna Stehlik; brother, Doug Stehlik (Carol); sister, Kay Goutremout (Fred), of Adams, N.Y.; and several nieces and nephews. She will be sadly missed by all. Memorial Service will be held 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 16, 2010, at the Parkway House of Prayer with Pastor Jeff Keaton officiating. Arrangements by Valley Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 1609 Peters Creek Road, NW, Roanoke, Va. 24017, 540-562-1182.