Sylvia Akers

Sylvia D. Akers peacefully departed this life on January 20, 2026. She was born on September 13, 1962, in Gainesville, Georgia, to the late Joel D. Johnson and Elmer Akers Sr.

Sylvia was a beloved coach, educator, mentor, and fierce advocate for children. Her life was tragically cut short in a car accident, but her impact will live on forever. Known for her generosity, strength, and unwavering faith, Sylvia had a rare ability to see when someone needed help, and she never hesitated to show up.

A proud graduate of East Hall High School, Class of 1980, Sylvia was a three-time state champion on the girls' basketball team under legendary Coach Seth Vining. She earned a full basketball scholarship to the University of Alabama and later completed her collegiate career at UNC Charlotte under Coach Ann Payne.

After beginning her professional career with Shell Oil Company in Indianapolis, Sylvia followed her calling into education. After earning her master's degree, she served as a teacher and coach in White County, Hall County, and most recently Gwinnett County Public Schools, where she was deeply loved at Duluth High School. To many, she was more than a coach; she was a protector, encourager, and steady source of belief.

From an early age, Sylvia was a faithful member of St. John Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Eugene Green, where she accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior. She served faithfully through the Sunshine Seniors and the food bank ministry, ensuring the 25 elders and families she delivered to had food each week.

Above all, Sylvia loved the Lord. Her joy for gospel music filled rooms and lifted spirits. Whether singing or playing songs of praise, worship followed her wherever she went.

Sylvia was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, and her beloved siblings, aunts, and uncles: Cheryl Akers, Stanford "Simon" Walker, Sanford Walker Sr., Johncy Walker Davis, Joan Walker, and Journia Walker.

She leaves to cherish her memory her daughter and greatest joy, Nekia "KiKi" Hendrix; her son-in-love, Gabriel Copeland; her grandchildren, Kayson and Kryslyn Copeland; her brother and sister, Elmer Jr. and Marion Akers; and friends she loved as family, Brenda Gilmore, Shelia Collins, Joy Handte, and Martha Randolph. She is also survived by a host of nieces, cousins, extended family, and many friends.

Sylvia was also blessed with families bound not by blood but by love, including the Mack, Green, Spain, and Whelchel families, and countless others whose lives were brighter because of her. Sylvia D. Akers loved boldly, served faithfully, and left a legacy that will never fade.