Deacon Kenneth Vincent Akins was born on January 7, 1950 in Flushing, New York. He was the first born of two sons of the late Dorothy and Willis Akins. His brother Paul Gregory Akins preceded him in death. He graduated from Jamaica High School where he played several sports and was named “Best Male Vocalist” of his graduating class. Later, he attended Queens College and Adelphi University School of Social Work. His professors described him as “an articulate and overall superior student with in-depth insight and keen perception of himself and others.”

As a child, Kenneth, affectionately known as “Ken” attended St. Thomas Lutheran Church in Jamaica, Queens and was confirmed there at age 15. Later, as an adult, he became a member at Calvary Baptist Church where he was baptized. He was a very faithful member at Calvary and served as an ordained Deacon. In his role of Deacon, he was able to put his exemplary ability to express heartfelt compassion and genuine care for others into practice. He would visit with those who were sick and/or in need in the church and was devoted to comforting and ministering to them. He had a beautiful tenor voice and sang in the male chorus and sanctuary choir. He was well known for his rendition of “God Is.” Kenneth had a unique sense of humor and loved making people laugh with his hilarious jokes. He had a beautiful smile.

Ken was active in the community and received several high honors and recognitions including awards from former New York City Mayor, David Dinkins and Congressman Floyde H. Flake in appreciation for his dedicated efforts in the “Black Men Against Drugs” campaign. His passion for the community and his commitment to fighting the war against drugs was unyielding. Ken truly “loved” to speak. He was a talented orator who was often acknowledged for his thought provoking lectures and seminars on the effects of drug and alcohol abuse. He spoke at numerous venues including: the Fresh Air Fund, New York City Police Department, Queensboro Society, LaGuardia Community College, and many other organizations. In 1981, he began his career at Mary Immaculate Hospital in Queens where he worked tirelessly as a Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) for nearly 30 years. Additionally, in 1987, he was appointed as an adviser to the New York State Assembly Alcoholism and Drug Committee. He was also very active in local union 1199 as an employee delegate and was appointed to serve on numerous contract negotiation committees.

While vacationing in Barbados in 1980, Kenneth met the love of his life, Penny who was also there vacationing with friends. In 1982, Kenneth and Penny married and started a beautiful family. He loved his family dearly. His hobbies included fishing, gardening, and cooking delicious meals and desserts.

We are thankful to the Lord our God for Kenneth’s rich legacy as he leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Penny Akins; two sons, Jarrett Akins and Akil Kamau (aka Patrick); daughter, Kendra Ellis; grandson, Amir Fite (fondly known his “favorite grandson”); nephew, Paul Akins; niece, Kindra Nicole Roebuck and a host of other relatives and friends.

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