Dorothy Ann Akins

Dorothy Anne Akins, of Muskegon, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly at home on February 8, 2026. She was born on November 27, 1951, in Fremont, Michigan to Louis and Emilia (Becker) Cushman. Dorothy was the beloved wife of Arthur Akins; together they were married in Las Vegas by a justice of the peace on January 23, 1975 and recently celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary.

Dorothy was known for her big heart, steadfast loyalty, and the way she cared for others-especially children. In the small town of Kent City, she nurtured and guided countless kids, welcoming them into her home after school and treating them like family. In 1996 they moved to Muskegon. She was a devoted mother and a proud grandmother, always thinking of her children and grandchildren and cheering them on.

A graduate of Fremont High School, Dorothy embraced her calling as a homemaker and was celebrated for her extraordinary baking and cooking-fresh-baked bread and dinner rolls, molasses cake, blueberry pies, and meals made from simple ingredients that brought everyone together. She loved flowers and kept beautiful baskets outside because of allergies, and she occasionally helped a neighbor with greenhouse work.

Dorothy faced health challenges with courage, including a heart valve replacement, yet she remained the warm, steady presence at the center of her family. Those who knew her remember her kindness, gentle humor, and unwavering support-standing by loved ones and seeing the good in everyone.

She is survived by her husband, Arthur; her children Rose Ann (Shannon Veltema) Cushman, Daniel Louis (Parri Curtis) Akins, and Lorraine (Dale) Kuhle; grandchildren, Samantha (Cathy) Arrigo, Daniel Akins, Kevin (Neveah) Akins, Jerome Kuhle, Emilia Kuhle, and Bethany Kuhle; great-grandchildren Aurora Akins and Heaven Akins; siblings Bertha (Bert) Rose and Ernie (Nancy) Cushman; sister-in-laws Vicki Akins, Mildred Cushman, brother-in-law Dwayne Struble; and several nieces, nephews, and extended family. She was preceded in death by loved ones including her parents , In-Laws, Brothers Louis Cushman Jr. and John Cushman, sister Emilia Struble; Rose and George Thompson and Daniel Jacob Akins.

In accordance with her family's wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date at the Fruitport Eagles; details will be announced. The family invites relatives and friends to share memories and condolences on the funeral home's website www.clockfuneralhome.com.