Darrell "DJ" Akers

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Darrell Gene Akers, known affectionately to his family and friends as "DJ". Born on December 3, 1976, in Washington, NC, Darrell's life was a testament to the vibrant and passionate spirit that he carried within him. His loyalty was a beacon, guiding his relationships with his loved ones and leaving a lasting impact on their lives.

Darrell was a man of many talents, with an innate ability to create and build. His love for the outdoors was reflected in his appreciation for landscaping, lending his creative touch to the landscapes he worked on. His ability to look at a plot of land and visualize the potential within it was remarkable. He worked for Gaskins Land Surveying as an assistant surveyor. His passion for constructing gadgets and tinkering was a testament to his innovative mind, and his creations were always a source of joy and fascination to those around him.

A graduate of West Craven High School, Darrell lived his life one day at a time, always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. His kindness was as refreshing as a cool breeze on a hot summer day, and it was this genuine warmth that touched the lives of his friends and family. What mattered most to Darrell was his family, particularly his cherished grandchildren. He leaves behind his loving mother, Phyllis Shelkey (Don); his sons, Gavin Akers (Chelsea), Darrin Akers (Gracie), and Halstun White (Angie); his daughter, Nina Akers (Sam); his grandchildren, Juno, Zayn, Aaden, and Lawson; brothers, Russell Akers (Susan), Ryan Smith (Meagan), Doyal Wayne Akers (Debbie), Jimmy Smith (Mitzi) and Heath Ragland; sister, Deanna Meadors (Eric), Erin Ragland, and Janet Grady (Frank); nieces, Julia, Olivia, Micahla, Rylee, Ashton, Hannah, and Alyssa; and nephews, Collin, Salle, Michael, and Colby. They will forever remember him as a beacon of warmth and love. Darrell was preceded in death by his father, Doyal Akers and stepfather, James Smith.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at Bennett Funeral and Cremation Care, 3310 Trent Road, New Bern. Graveside service will be 2 p.m. on Thursday, April 3, 2025 at Morris Family Cemetery on Butler Ford Road, Vanceboro, NC with Pastor Brent Manning officiating.

As we mourn the loss of our beloved Darrell, we also celebrate the life he lived, full of creativity, loyalty, and love. We encourage family and friends to share their precious memories and photos of DJ on his memorial page. His spirit lives on in our hearts, in the warmth of the sun on our faces, and in the landscapes that he loved.

Bennett Funeral & Cremation Care is honored to serve the family and friends of Darrell Akers.