Melissa Bowen

Melissa Kay Akers Bowen, 55, of Albemarle, passed away Wednesday, May 26, 2021 at Atrium Health Cabarrus in Concord.

Melissa was born May 30, 1965 in Wyoming County, WV to the late William Edgar Akers and Shirley Ann Houston Beachum. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Tommy Akers; and sister, Linda Burnette.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm, Saturday, May 29, 2021 at Hartsell Funeral Home of Albemarle. The funeral service to celebrate her life will be at 3:00 pm on Sunday at First Baptist Church of Gold Hill, officiated by Pastor Toney Parsons.

In addition to her mother, Shirley Beachum, she is survived by her children, Patricia (Justin) Shaffer, Kenny (Christy) Akers, Jennifer (John) Hudson, and Amanda Rounds; grandchildren, Nicole, Adam Jr., Jackie, Marien, Justin Jr., Carol, Brook, Nina, Kendon, Jayden, Kayden, Keelee, Shawn, Tyler, John, Natalie,  Jayden, and Teagan; brother, Aaron Akers; sisters, Stephanie Blalock, Peggy Fury, Frankie Reed,  and Ethel Hines; husband, Richard Allen Bowen; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Melissa was a devoted and loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, wife, and friend. She was a faithful member of First Baptist of Gold Hill. She loved the Lord and listening to her church music. Melissa loved going to the beach and tending to her roses. She was also an avid animal lover. Melissa had a generous spirit and big heart, who was always there when you needed her. She will be missed by all who knew her.

Memorials may be made to Stanly County Humane Society, 2049 Badin Rd., Albemarle, NC 28001.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Albemarle is serving the Bowen family.

Online condolences may be made at www.hartsellfh.com