Michele Akins

Michele Annette Woodruff Akins -born July 8, 1970 died July 21, 2021 , age 51 years. Michele went to be with the Lord in the early morning hours of July 21st. She took her last breath in the comfort of her home after a 4 year long battle with cancer. She fought a brave and good fight for the love of her family.
Michele was born on July 8, 1970 in El Centro, California. The family soon moved to Bakersfield California where Michele became a proud, lifelong “08er”, attending Beardsley Elementary School from Kindergarten thru 8th grade then, on to graduate from North High, Class of 88. Once a Star, Always a Star! Michele was active in athletics and just about all social events in high school. Upon graduation from high school, Michele enrolled at Southern California College, (now known as Vanguard University) an Assemblies of God College in Costa Mesa, CA. Nothing in Micheles life was more important than her personal relationship with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Michele had a faith and love of Christ that remained unfettered.
Upon graduation from college Michele went on to get her teaching credential and entered in to what would become her life’s work, teaching. For 29 years Michele served the Fairfax Elementary School District and Fairfax community as a teacher, mentor and friend.
In May of 2002 Michele was asked if her phone number could be given to a young man named Russ Akins. She said sure. On July 12, 2003 Russ was fortunate to take Micheles hand in matrimony. We recently celebrated our 18th Anniversary. Together we began building a beautiful life together. Three beautiful children. Silas, 16, Lexie 13 and Jocelyn 11 came along. Micheles children were her life.
Michele is survived by her husband, Russ Akins, her children Silas, Lexie and Jocelyn. Her mother Gretchen Woodruff. Her sister, Gena Lieske and Rob, nephews Drayton and Devon. Her brother Jason Woodruff and Patty and their children Caleb, Micah, Levi, Julia, David and Daniel. Her In-laws Ed and Cloeta Bowen, Russ and Lisa Akins. Her niece Brianna Akins, Nephew Brian Akins, his wife Chancee and niece, Allena Akins. As well as many Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and friends
Michele is preceeded in death by her father, David R. Woodruff.
A viewing will be held Thursday, July 29th from 6pm-8pm at the Kern River Morturary, 1900 N. Chester Ave., Bakersfield (Oildale), CA 93308.
Memoria/Celebration of Life to be held, Friday, July 30th at 11am at Bakersfield First Assembly of God Church, 4901 California Ave., Bakersfield, CA 93309. Lunch to follow in the Church FMC, provided by Saltys BBQ.