Ms. Anne McAfee Akins, age 73, recently of Atlanta, GA, formerly of Blairsville passed away peacefully on Monday September 29, 2025 at Northside Hospital Atlanta.

Anne was born on May 27, 1952 in Murphy, NC., the daughter of the late Garnett Ervin McAfee and the late Louise McAfee. Anne was a loving and caring mother, sister and aunt.

Anne is preceded in death by her beloved husband of thirty years, Dimitrius Owens (of Cedartown, GA), who passed away in 2024.

Surviving Ms. Akins are one son and daughter-in-law, Sean Akins and Stacy Moscatelli of Pinehurst, NC; two brothers and one sister-in-law, Douglas McAfee of Blairsville, Rickey and Debbie McAfee of Lawrenceville, GA; one sister, Denise McAfee Hendler of Blairsville; and three nieces, Sandy, Erin, and Carson McAfee. She is also survived by Shaka, her adored dog, who brought her great joy and companionship.

A self-made woman, Anne began her career as a desk agent in the travel industry in 1988. She retired 31 years later as the Senior Vice President of Travel Technology at BCD Travel, where she was affectionately known as Dixie. Anne visited the beaches of the Caribbean, the saharas of Africa, the spires of Moscow; she was a fearless adventurer who traveled the world and cherished the many friends she made along the way. She will be dearly missed.

A memorial service will be held in Blairsville and announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to either the American Cancer Society or the Brookhaven Dog Park in Anne’s memory.

Mountain View Funeral Home of Blairsville will oversee the arrangements. Please sign the family guest book and send condolences online at www.mountainviewfuneralhome.com

Published by The News & Observer on Oct. 9, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Anne Akins

15 Entries

Russ Howell

November 11, 2025

Dixie was a true original, in every best sense of that word. She was always wise and she always cared... and she will always be missed. Sending my most sincere condolences to all of her family, who she so cherished.

Sharon Whitmore Hill

October 25, 2025

I have many happy memories of staying nights at Anne's house and her spending nights at my house during high school. Anne had a way of making something fantastic out of the smallest things. One of my favorite memories is playing records in her bedroom and singing and dancing along with the music. Another was her trying to teach me how to swim in El Joe Lodge's pool.
I loved her quick wit, her great sense of humor, her easy smile, accompanied by the twinkle in her blue eyes, that bit of mischievousness that would pop up from time to time, the way she could make us laugh.
I was so excited to hear she was coming to our last class reunion and so sad when she was not able to come.
Anne was a dear friend. My life was blessed by her walking beside me during those high school years.
May precious memories bring comfort and peace in the days ahead to all who received the gift of Anne's love.

Barbara Blue

October 25, 2025

Dixie was a quiet force of nature and the most loyal friend imaginable. We knew each other since our early 20’s and literally grew up together. I first met her when I became her customer while I was Turner Broadcasting and CNN. Many evenings spent in the lobby bar of Peachtree Center solving all the problems of the world! We became fast friends and that friendship lasted a lifetime. When I left Turner she eventually moved to DC and we were not in such close touch during those years. But to my delight when I joined World Travel parters, Dixie was there too and we picked up right where we left off. She loved traveling to the Caribbean and we spent many beautiful vacations together with Dimitrius and Stacey. I cherish those memories and the fun and joy we experienced living those fabulous trips. We cheered each on as we progressed in our careers and I always respected her wise counsel. She was admired by many for her calm demeanor and leadership skills, but to me is a once in a lifetime friend and confidant that can never be replaced. I miss her dearly. My deepest condolences to the family for Dixie is gone far too soon.

Leslie West

October 15, 2025

It’s hard to capture someone like Dixie in words—because she was so much more than words. She was a force: brilliant, bold, and brimming with humor. To know her was to witness a rare combination of knowledge and compassion, often wrapped in a quick-witted southern comeback that could light up a room or disarm a tense moment.

I had the privilege of calling her both a colleague and a friend. Over the years, especially on the road—was filled with laughter, deep conversations, and stories that revealed the real Dixie: fiercely loyal, curious, funny, fair and a great leader.

She led with heart, even when she pretended not to. She made work feel like purpose even when it was not in her best interest personally, and regardless of the situation made people feel like family.

You will be missed. Prayers and strength for the family.

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Dixie with us on an outing! She was always up for a good time and will be so missed!

Tracy Osborn

October 15, 2025

I am so saddened by the loss of my dear friend, Dixie. But my heart rejoices she is reunited with Demetrius. I will miss her love and support and I will miss what a mentor she always to me. She was the kindest soul and I know she will be missed by friend, family and most of those who were lucky enough to cross her path. See you on the other side, my dear friend.

Jennifer Townsend Walley

October 14, 2025

When I first came to WorldTravel Partners, my only travel experience was from the corporate traveler perspective - Dixie took me under her wing and was my sounding board for many years. We talked about work, family, books, travel and so much more over drinks at the hotel bar in Falls Church or in our Atlanta offices. What a gift she was to this world! I will miss her but am glad she is at peace now.

Mark Judson

October 14, 2025

I am so sorry to hear of Dixie's passing. Dixie was a wonderful person and I will always remember how much I enjoyed working with her. She was so dedicated and caring and always made time for you no matter how busy she was. I had not spoken to Dixie in a number of years but have thought of her often. She will forever be remembered and my prayers go out to her family and friends.

Kathy Jackson

October 13, 2025

We were so sorry to hear of Dixie’s illness and her passing. She will always be remembered for her kindness, mild demeanor and loyalty. We both knew Dixie for many years while working together and loved her dearly.
Our heart and prayers go out to her family and friends during this difficult time.
Until we meet again our dear friend.

Teri Miller

October 13, 2025

My heart breaks for an amazing lady who was always so kind and willing to support anyone who needs help. This mon is both business and in her personal life. I hate that we were not in touch and pray that she went in peace. Cancer is horrible and no one deserves the pain it can bring. Dixie was the best of people, I toast her for the life she had! She now is with her love.

John Snyder

October 13, 2025

Dixie was truly one of a kind. Always incredibly sweet and kind to everyone. She had an incredible commitment to her job, but more importantly to the people at BCD - she genuinely cared for all of her co-workers and her employees. I know she will be deeply missed by those that knew her well but happy she will be re-united with Dimitrius!

Chuck (Captn Jack) Ballance

October 12, 2025

I admired Anne as she gave my good friend D (Dimitrius) a grounding place in his life. I saw her once after D passed and she seemed to be doing good. May she rest in peace as she joins D where we all will meet again. I hope to attend her celebration.

Margaret Arnett

October 12, 2025

To Dixie’s family -
She was one of a kind. An amazing boss, mentor, and most of all friend. Truly irreplaceable.
Please know you are all in our hearts.
With much appreciation for sharing her with us
Margaret Arnett

Audrey Sullivan

October 9, 2025

I remember spending many nights at Ann’s house during our school years. Only had the opportunity to see her very few times after we graduated. I was so looking forward to seeing her at our class reunion & so disappointed that she wasn’t able to attend. Good memories

Charles & Nancy Gregory

October 9, 2025

We're going to miss you Ann. You're a wonderful person and a good friend

Mountain View Funeral Home

October 9, 2025

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

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