Belvin Franklin Akins

Belvin Franklin Akins, 96, of Charlotte, NC, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2025. Born in Fuquay-Varina, NC, Belvin was shaped by the values of hard work and family, spending his formative years laboring alongside his brothers and sister on the family's tobacco farm and warehouse.

After graduating from high school in Fuquay-Varina, Belvin pursued higher education at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill before transferring to East Carolina University, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in History in 1953. His commitment to service began early through ROTC participation in high school and continued when he proudly served his country as a 1st Lieutenant in the United States Air Force from 1953 to 1956.

A man whose spirit soared when surrounded by nature, Belvin found his truest joy in the great outdoors. Whether taking leisurely walks, relaxing on a park bench, piloting his plane through open skies, navigating waters from his boat, or simply feeling the sand beneath his feet at the beach, he was most at peace in nature's embrace.

Those who knew Belvin will forever remember his radiant positivity and infectious joy for life. He possessed the rare gift of seeing the good in everyone he met, leaving each person he encountered a little brighter for having known him.

Belvin is lovingly survived by his sons, Barron Belvin Akins and James Herbert Akins; his grandson, Barron Austin Akins; his daughter-in-law, Kelly Akins; and his sister, Willa Adcock. His legacy of kindness, optimism, and unconditional love will continue to inspire all who were blessed to call him family.

A celebration of Belvin's remarkable life will be held in November in Fuquay-Varina, NC. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial contributions to The Autism Society or The Marine Discovery Center, organizations that reflect Belvin's generous spirit.