Sam V. Atkins
Sam Vernon Akins, age 90, of Bedford, Texas, passed away Friday, April 12, 2024, in Dallas, Texas. The family will hold a private burial at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery later that day.
A proud sixth generation Texan, he was born on April 21, 1933, to Vernon R. and Yvonne (Jeter) Akins in Wichita Falls, Texas. Sam grew up in Jacksboro (JHS Class of 1950) and graduated from the University of North Texas in 1954 where he was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon. A proud American patriot and veteran, Sam served in the US Army as a Sergeant in Korea.
Sam married his college sweetheart, Malta Evans of Olney, Texas in 1955. Sam and Malta were blessed with three daughters and raised their family in Irving, Texas. Sam was Sr. Vice President at Dallas Federal Savings, a founding officer of First American Savings and then President of United Bank and Trust of Grapevine. Throughout Sam’s life he was an active member of his community serving on many boards and commissions. Sam’s additional passions included being a lifelong family genealogist; collecting antiques (some of which are displayed at the Jack County Museum); photography (snapshots); American and Texas history; and traveling to all 50 states and 16 countries.
Sam’s greatest joy was his marriage to Malta and his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Malta Evans Akins and his three daughters Malynn (John) Harris, Melissa (Joe) Rossa, and Marihelen (Neil) Wieberg. His legacy continues through his five grandchildren: Brayden (Sunni) Harris, Kathryn (Rhett) Goodman, Christina Rossa, Andrew Rossa, and Mackenzie (Aidan) Robison, as well as his great grandchildren Elliott Goodman, Caroline Goodman, Lilian Goodman, and Landon Harris.
Additionally, he is survived by his sister-in-law and brother-in-law Linda and Larry Seedig (both of Olney, Texas), nephews Lyle (Julie) Seedig and Landry (Jamie) Seedig, and great nieces and nephews Katelyn, Brett, Crew, Brooke, Presley, and Taylor. Along with numerous cousins and many dear friends.
Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.bluebonnethills. com.