Willie Akins, an icon of the St. Louis jazz scene passed away in his sleep at home in East St. Louis on Friday. He was 76.
The saxophonist and faculty member for Webster University was among the most relentless crusaders for St. Louis jazz music and his Willie Akins Quartet was a mainstay on the scene for several years.
Akins had suffered a series of health issues recently. His death was due to congestive heart failure.
A special benefit for Akins scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, October 6 at Sheldon Concert Hall to aid with medical expenses will take place as originally scheduled.
A GoFundMe Account has been created to aid with funeral expenses.
Final arrangements for Akins are as follows:
Wake at Eddie Randle & Sons 4600 Natural Bridge
Date: Wed. Oct. 7
Time: 2pm to 8pm J
Funeral
Date: Thu Oct. 8th
Time: 12noon
Repast @ Troy’s 4519 Olive
Time: 4 to 8
To make a contribution, visit
https://www.gofundme.com/willie-akins/
