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Celebrating the life of William Robinson Akers, Jr.
Agreed to by the Senate, February 12, 2026
WHEREAS, William Robinson Akers, Jr., a devoted paramedic who worked diligently to advance the field of emergency medicine through his visionary leadership in training and education, died on August 22, 2024; and
WHEREAS, William “Bill” Akers dedicated his life to the service of others, inspiring students as a chemistry teacher at St. Paul High School and safeguarding the community as a longtime member and former captain of the Lebanon Lifesaving Crew; and
WHEREAS, in 1987, Bill Akers became one of the original paramedics associated with the Med-Flight II helicopter emergency medical services (EMS) program, and he continued to work as a flight paramedic for years to come; and
WHEREAS, Bill Akers shared his expertise with other EMS professionals as a training coordinator at the Southwest Virginia EMS Council; he was a passionate advocate for high-quality patient care and helped bring new training opportunities to regional agencies; and
WHEREAS, Bill Akers served on a variety of regional and state committees related to EMS education, and he grew the Southwest Virginia Paramedic Program from a single class in Richlands to a comprehensive educational system that spurred the creation of other paramedic courses throughout the region; and
WHEREAS, Bill Akers earned numerous awards and accolades for his personal and professional achievements, including the Governor's EMS Award for Excellence in Emergency Medical Services in 2023; and
WHEREAS, guided by his deep faith in all his good deeds, Bill Akers enjoyed fellowship and worship at Lebanon Community Fellowship Church, where he was an active and highly admired member of the congregation; and
WHEREAS, Bill Akers will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by his wife, Cherie; his children, Nathaniel and Bethany, and their families; and numerous other family members, friends, and colleagues; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of Virginia hereby note with great sadness the loss of William Robinson Akers, Jr., a leader in emergency medicine who touched countless lives over the course of his distinguished career; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of William Robinson Akers, Jr., as an expression of the Senate of Virginia's respect for his memory.