David W. Akard Jr

October 11, 1943 - January 5, 2021

It is with heartfelt sadness that our loving husband, father, grandfather and leader, David W. Akard, Jr., age 77, of Bristol, TN passed away on Tuesday, January 5, 2021 after a brief illness surrounded by his family. David was a third generation of the Akard family to become a funeral director having received his license in November 1968. David was a long-time member of the Country Club of Bristol serving the Board of Directors, a member of the Jaycees, The Bristol Host Lions Club, along with many other organizations. He was a very loved member of the Bristol Community. He was preceded in death by his parents, David W. Akard and Kathleen Willis Akard; his sister, Kathleen Akard Watford and husband, Jerry and brother-in-law, James Bowdoin. Survivors include his wife of 47 years, Melinda Buchanan Akard; daughter, Cynthia Ann Akard and partner, Cory Luellen; his twins, Bambi Brooke Akard and David W. Akard, III and wife, Rae; three beloved grandchildren, Davis Buchanan Akard, Alexandra Reagan Akard and Palmer Rayne Akard; sister, Louise Akard Bowdoin; sister-in-law, Diane Hughes and husband, Larry; Beverly Aldridge and brother-in-law, Michael Buchanan and wife, Vicki; and many nieces and nephews. Thank you everyone for the prayers and support, especially the 3rd Floor Nurses and Staff for the tremendous support and care provided to David during his stay. A private graveside service will be conducted at Glenwood Cemetery with Rev. Sam Weddington officing. Due to COVID-19, there will be no formal visitation, the book and picture video will be available 10: A.M. - 4:00 P.M., Thursday and Friday at Akard Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to First Presbyterian Church, 701 Florida Ave., Bristol, TN 37620 or Girls Inc of Bristol, 613 Highland Ave., Bristol, VA 24201. Condolences and memories may be left for the family at akardfuneralhome.com Akard Funeral Home, (423) 989-4800 is serving the Akard family. II Timothy 4:7 “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”