Ben Akeson

Ben Akeson ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Ferreira Funeral Services at Beaches Memorial Park on Mar. 9, 2026.Akeson - Reuben "Ben" Akeson, age 78, passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 3, 2026, under the care of Community Hospice- Orange Park Hospital after a long battle with heart disease and dementia. He was previously living in Riverwood Center before being moved to Orange Park Nursing. Ben was born on September 29, 1947, in Augusta, Georgia to the late Julian K. Akeson and Ida Ruth VanDyke Akeson. Ben spent most of his life in Jacksonville, Florida after moving from St. Augustine, Florida. He worked for Sunbelt Rentals delivering heavy equipment before becoming a truck driver for Cardinal Logistics to deliver shipments. Ben was a member of the First Baptist Church of Jacksonville for many years and enjoyed singing hymns, being in nature, walking, and spending time with family and friends. He loved his family and enjoyed sharing with others. Ben loved animals, especially dogs, but he learned to love cats too. His favorite tv show was Tales of Wells Fargo. Ben was preceded in death by his sister, Ruth Gibson; and brother, John Akeson (Trinita).Ben is survived by his wife of 45 years, Deborah Gail Akeson; daughter, Ashleigh Akeson; a former wife, and mother of his son, Ricky Akeson; two stepchildren; brother, Philip Akeson (Trinka); nephews, Philip Kyle Akeson (Lin), Michael Akeson, David Akeson (Jennifer), Jonathan Gibson (Stacey), and John Michael Akeson (Janet); as well as numerous extended family members and friends.The tribute above was prepared by Ben's loving family.A Graveside Service for Ben will be held on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Beaches Memorial Park, 1500 Main Street, Atlantic Beach, Florida, 32233. In lieu of flowers please either make a donation to The Alzheimer's Association https://www.alz.org/ or donate funds to help continue to care for the animals Ben loved. https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=9YGAQ8LNYK8JSDonations of pet food and supplies are accepted as well. https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/A03TNL37AQMF?ref_=wl_share Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. TODD FERREIRA FUNERAL SERVICES, 1500 Main Street, Atlantic Beach, Florida. (904) 249-1166.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.