Tribute Wall
Saturday
24
August
Visitation
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Saturday, August 24, 2024
Historic George Funeral Home & Cremation Center
211 Park Ave SW
Aiken, South Carolina, United States
803-649-6234
Sunday
25
August
Funeral Service
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Sunday, August 25, 2024
St. Paul United Methodist Chuch
600 Main St.
New Ellenton, South Carolina, United States
Sunday
25
August
Interment Service
3:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Sunday, August 25, 2024
St. Paul United Methodist Chuch
600 Main St.
New Ellenton, South Carolina, United States
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Phil Miller posted a condolence
Monday, August 26, 2024
I felt that Austin and I developed a deep relationship in a short time. Our souls are connected through our faith and our passions for life. Austin was a very hard worker and served his country with honor through his difficult assignments. Austin was a warrior and has helped us live in freedom. I am very thankful for his life, although it ended too soon. Austin was a humble man who was interested in helping others. His life made a huge footprint on the lives of people he met. Austin's thoughtfulness and kindness were so refreshing. He was so appreciative for opportunities that came his way. He expressed his gratitude with sincerity. He gave me two books that I will treasure all my life. I want to express my sorrow to his family and will be in prayer for them with his loss. I know I will see Austin in Glory. His memory will stay close with me until then. Phil Miller
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Pam Frank & Micah Lee uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, August 24, 2024
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In reading through the many tributes honoring Austin and then meeting many more friends and relatives at the visitation, a few words come to mind for me: Austin was Family. Austin was Everything.
We met Austin almost 4 years ago when he came to help our autistic son Micah who was, for a myriad of medical reasons, quite aggressive. Those were very dark days as we all suffered much physical abuse, and Austin never left. He came every time I called. We will be forever grateful to his family for sharing him with us. Their sacrifice for us was immense.
Through it all, Austin and Micah established a deep bond. He could get Micah to do things that others could not, and Micah actually enjoyed it all. Austin also insisted that Frank and I spend quality time together by keeping Micah for us on Friday date nights and weekend respite getaways. I never worried for Micah was in the best possible hands, and I know he enjoyed hanging out with the “cool kids”-as Austin would say!
Of course the loss of Austin for our family, as well as others, is profound. There will never be another like him. However, while our grief is immense, we also realize and appreciate what a great blessing he was to us all. We will forever carry his love, support and friendship in our hearts forever. Until we meet again Austin-We love you so!
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Aaron “Whitey” Whitehead posted a condolence
Saturday, August 24, 2024
Austin and I served in the military together. During my second deployment to Afghanistan I was his assistant gunner on a M240B gun team. While en route to our objective on one of our many pointless missions in Kantiwa Valley we had a crap your pants moment. It was dark, cold and snowy and our small team was taking an alternate route before linking up with the rest of the platoon at our objective. Coming across a small creek we realized we couldn’t jump it with our equipment on and we didn’t want to get wet risking hypothermia or frostbite
, especially since when we arrived at our objective we would be sitting still pulling overwatch. Well we figured out we could jump it but only after tossing our weapons and some of our equipment across first. We did this one at a time while the others pulled security. One member of our team had a bad toss and accidentally threw his M-4 in the creek! Austin saw where it went and without hesitation jumped in the creek to retrieve the other guy’s rifle. My eyes were as big as saucers seeing that because I knew Austin was gonna be in trouble. That was the thing about him though, he just leapt into action if something needed to be done, damn the consequences. Somewhere there is a picture of a bunch of us after the mission sitting around a stove warming up. Luckily he didn’t receive any lasting damage from that but he sure as hell didn’t know that would be the case when he jumped in that creek.
There’s another story on the next deployment to Afghanistan when our encampment was raided at dawn and Austin sprang into action firing rockets and shooting back at the enemy. After the dust had settled we found bullet holes in Austin’s sleeping bag so it was his instinct to act in that moment that likely saved his life, in addition to others.
The second story is more exciting but I don’t think anyone has ever heard the creek story before as we all swore secrecy to that for fear of getting in trouble for almost losing a weapon! That’s the first time I’ve ever told that story. Austin doing what he thought was right and not giving a damn about what people thought was his most admirable quality and that’s something I strive for myself. I’m going to miss him.
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Regina Durran uploaded photo(s)
Friday, August 23, 2024
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We have known Austin for more than a decade now. We are honored that he accepted the responsibility of being a godfather to our son, Cameron. He is such a cool, genuinely kind person and a loving godfather to our son. We will miss him so much. He is not just a friend, but a brother to us; a second father to our son. Rest in peace, Austin. We know that God has a better plan for you. We will make sure that Cameron will love, honor, and remember your memories forever. We love you.
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Regina Durran uploaded photo(s)
Friday, August 23, 2024
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We have known Austin for more than a decade now. We are honored that he accepted the responsibility of being a godfather to our son, Cameron. He is such a cool, genuinely kind person and a loving godfather to our son. We will miss him so much. He is not just a friend, but a brother to us; a second father to our son. Rest in peace, Austin. We know that God has a better plan for you. We will make sure that Cameron will love, honor, and remember your memories forever. We love you.
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Juan Bido posted a condolence
Thursday, August 22, 2024
Austin was an amazing person and trainer. He loved helping people get into better health. He was always humble and constantly working hard. I’m going to miss him.
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Michael Puppolo uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, August 22, 2024
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It’s only fitting that you would go first, to conduct the Recon of that final objective in the sky. Keep it secure for us, we’ll see you soon, save me a seat.
Thank you for ALL you mean to me. I’ll miss you. We Love you, Tough Guy.
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DeDe Johnson Still posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 21, 2024
Austin’s mother and I shared an apartment back in the mid 80s. He was such a cute and sweet child.
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Lisa Ducharme uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, August 21, 2024
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I am so sorry to hear of Austin's passing. I did not see him often, he was a warm and gentle man.
My thoughts and prayers go out to Austin's families and friends.
You will be missed!
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Bobbie Jo Bates posted a condolence
Monday, August 19, 2024
Sending love and light to Austin’s family and all those who loved him. He was a big part of my fitness journey and my first CrossFit coach. His coaching and encouragement kept me coming to the gym. All that knew him, truly loved him. Rest in peace Austin.
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Gene posted a condolence
Sunday, August 18, 2024
Kindred spirits are we
Protectors of the brave and free
Fighting for the land we love
On land, by sea, and from above
Ne’er shall we give to fear
Even as our end draws near
And when Valhalla does call
We hold our heads above all
For we’ve fought to our final breath
To earn a Viking’s death
With the fondest memories of a great friend and a great man. Rest well, Austin.
Gene
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Paige posted a condolence
Sunday, August 18, 2024
I briefly was fortunate enough to get to know Austin through mutual friends. Even though I didn't get to spend a great deal of time with him, he absolutely made an outsize impression on me as a man of the utmost integrity and grit. He was clearly amazingly talented and most importantly, kind, genuine and caring. The world needs more men like him. He is sorely missed and will always be fondly remembered. Prayers for peace and comfort for his family and all of us who knew him.
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Cat posted a condolence
Sunday, August 18, 2024
I joined CrossFit in Augusta around 2013, during a particularly difficult time in life. Austin was a key member of group of people who were just what I needed at the time. I looked forward to his creative, inspiring coaching, especially Sunday WODs. Those workouts, Austin, and the friends I made there, helped build me back up & get me back into life. May he rest easy and all who loved him feel some peace in knowing how many lives he’s impacted. His impact will live on and on.
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Phil Miller posted a condolence
Sunday, August 18, 2024
I felt that Austin and I developed a deep relationship in a short time. Our souls connected through our faith and our passions for life. Austin was a very hard worker and served his country with honor through his difficult assignments. Austin was a warrior and has helped us live in freedom. I am very thankful for his life, although it ended too soon. Austin was a humble man who was interested in helping others. His life made a huge footprint in the lives of people he met. Austin's thoughtfulness and kindness were so refreshing. He was so appreciative for kindness and opportunities that came his way. He expressed his gratitude with sincerity. He gave me two books that I will treasure all my life. I want to express my sorrow to his family and will be in prayer for them with his loss. I know I will see Austin in Glory. His memory will stay close with me until then. Phil Miller
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Larry Lynn posted a condolence
Sunday, August 18, 2024
I am so very sorry to hear about the passing of Austin. Always a fine, young, polite and respectful young man. I remember him way back to the T-ball days. RIP young man... Larry Lynn
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Pamela Pianka posted a condolence
Saturday, August 17, 2024
I met Austin through a networking group. This breaks my heart. Prayers for his family.
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Jenny Stewart posted a condolence
Saturday, August 17, 2024
Austin had such a huge heart and passion for helping people with unique needs. He worked with my granddaughter who has cerebral palsy to find her balance and strength and did it in a way that related to an 8 year old. Austin, you will be missed! You brought an amazing light to the world!
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Gary posted a condolence
Saturday, August 17, 2024
I knew Austin in Iraq, having worked around him for a couple of years. Shared books with this impressive warrior scholar. Was arranging to be an R&R stop for his Appalachian Trail trek. He will be missed by many.
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Janet Reyome lit a candle
Saturday, August 17, 2024
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So Sorry for your loss, He was Such A Great Soul . My Deepest Condolences to all of the Family
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Marcus Harper uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, August 17, 2024
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Thank you for all the memories Brother. I love you.
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Manny Rubiera posted a condolence
Saturday, August 17, 2024
I met Austin thru a business group. I am devasted to hear of this he just had such a big heart.
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Troy Williamson posted a condolence
Saturday, August 17, 2024
I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest condolences for your loss. Austin was such an integral part of my CrossFit journey, and I will forever be grateful for the way he welcomed me into the CrossFit 706 community.
From the very first day, Austin made me feel at home. His patience in teaching me the movements, his encouragement, and his unwavering support were truly inspiring. As a new CrossFit athlete, I couldn’t have asked for a better mentor and friend. Austin’s kindness and dedication have been a significant reason why I started and continue with CrossFit, and I know his impact will remain with me always.
Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Austin will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire all of us who were fortunate enough to know him.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Troy Williamson
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The Strader Family lit a candle
Saturday, August 17, 2024
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We, the Strader family, send our condolences to the Akins family in the loss of precious, irreplaceable Austin. Austin was an especially profound part of our own hearts and lives, up-close and personal...so many memories. Know that we grieve with you and pray for strength for all of you in this sorrowful time.
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Andy & Donna Lowe posted a condolence
Saturday, August 17, 2024
Words can not express the sorrow that Donna and our family feel for the loss of one of the kindest and most loveable young men we have ever had intertwined into our lives and family. He was much admired and will always remain in our thoughts and prayers along with his wonderful family.
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Jennifer Wilcox posted a condolence
Saturday, August 17, 2024
Austin you truly were one of the best one!! I will miss you dearly!!! I was so bless to build a friendship with you while working with our dear Micah man!! So many great memories!! Your kind heart and spirit and determination to never give up hope!!! You kept me going more then you will ever know!!! My heart breaks that you are gone!! I will forever cherish all the fun memories with you, Micah, coconut, bear and mildot!!! May you rest in peace sir!!!
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BeeGee Paradise posted a condolence
Saturday, August 17, 2024
So sorry for the loss of Austin. My prayers for comfort are with all his family and friends.
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Charles Campbell posted a condolence
Saturday, August 17, 2024
I met Austin in BNI and visited his CrossFit center a few times. He was a great guy and I know he will be sorely missed.
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Happy Bones Jones posted a condolence
Saturday, August 17, 2024
Austin is one of the best souls I've ever known. He taught me a lot just by being him. He was absolutely amazing. I already miss him. I'll never forget him!
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Cap posted a condolence
Friday, August 16, 2024
What can I say about Austin that has not already been said. A fearsome warrior and great friend, who will truly be missed. I knnow I was very fortunate to have worked with him and able to call him a friend. Rest easy brother !
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Marsha Tumlin posted a condolence
Friday, August 16, 2024
I will always treasure our friendship. We went through many seasons of life together, and our friendship never wavered. I will miss our conversations so very much. Love you always Austin. Rest in Peace Brother.
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The family of Austin Brooks Akins uploaded a photo
Friday, August 16, 2024
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Peter Menkevich posted a condolence
Friday, August 16, 2024
I was so honored and humbled to be called your brother. You shared so much that is priceless to me. I love and miss you
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Jean Yen posted a condolence
Friday, August 16, 2024
So grateful for all the laughs I got from him. I'll always remember him having a blast riding his skateboard on the flightline in Tallil.
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Lance Varga posted a condolence
Friday, August 16, 2024
First met Austin in Iraq, helluva guy. Remember all of the range days, beer pong days and clinic visits when reporting back from vacation. See you in Valhalla.
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Marcus posted a condolence
Friday, August 16, 2024
Take care my man. You taught me a lot about brotherhood. I will miss you. I’ll make the Appalachian for you. Just wish you could be with me. Ain’t gonna be the same without you.
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Jon Willoughby posted a condolence
Friday, August 16, 2024
Lucky, enough to meet Austin in Iraq. Just a great guy. He will be missed.
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Emily Goodman posted a condolence
Friday, August 16, 2024
Condolences to the Akins family in the passing of Austin. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you find comfort in knowing others care. ❤️
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Rob Gaeta planted a tree in memory of Austin Akins
Friday, August 16, 2024
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We miss you Austin. May your spirit live on through this beautiful tree.
Please wait
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Tommy Breedlove uploaded photo(s)
Friday, August 16, 2024
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Rest in Peace warrior. I am gonna miss you so much. Thanks you for watching my back in the most dangerous times in the most dangerous places. You were the best!
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Yuri Campbell uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, August 15, 2024
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He was such a kind soul when I met him. He was my brother.
His smile and his kindess is embalzen in my memory.
Our Location
211 Park Avenue, SW
Aiken, SC
29801
(803) 649-6234
Fax (803) 648-6150
info@georgefuneralhomes.com