Jill Ann Akers, 75, of Wilton, passed away Monday, Sept. 2, 2024, at her home. A visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m., Friday, Sept. 6, at Wilton United Methodist Church. A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 7, at the church. Burial will take place in Oakdale Cemetery, Wilton. Memorials may be made to Wilton Legion Auxiliary or the Wilton United Methodist Church. Online condolences may be left at www.bentleyfuneralhome.com.
Jill was born on Sept. 4, 1948, the daughter of Everett and Grace (Satterthwaite) Rife. She graduated from Wilton High School with the Class of 1966. She went on to attend Iowa State University, majoring in home economic education, and was a proud member of the Alpha Delta Pi Sorority. Jill furthered her education by earning a master’s degree in cooperative learning from Drake University. On Aug. 23, 1969, Jill married the love of her life, Joseph Akers. Together, they built a beautiful life centered around family, education, and community.
Jill had a passion for teaching and shared her knowledge with countless students over her 35-year career as a teacher at North Polk High School, Davenport West High School, and Davenport Central High School. Jill also worked at Grain Processing in Muscatine and supported her husband, Joe, in their ventures at Abner Bell’s Restaurant in Storm Lake and The Legion Bar in Wilton.
Jill was a devoted member of the Wilton United Methodist Church, where she served on various committees and was an active participant in their sewing circle. Jill’s greatest love was her family. She cherished every moment spent with her loved ones, especially her grandchildren, whose sporting events she never missed. She was the heart of her family, always encouraging gatherings and fostering a sense of togetherness.
Jill will be lovingly remembered by her husband, Joe; two children, Dawn Yedlik and Chris (Jennifer) Akers; four grandchildren, Landon and Sydney Yedlik and Megumi and Joseph Akers; a brother, Jack (Sharon) Rife; a sister, Joy Combs; and several nieces and nephews.
Jill was preceded in death by her parents; and one sister in-law, Peg Akers.
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