Virginia Marie Akins

Virginia Marie Akins, formerly known as Jenny, passed away on Thursday, January 15, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones at home with her family. She was born on Thursday, November 7, 1940, in Flat River, Missouri, to the late Amos and Ethel (DeGuire) AuBuchon.

Jenny was a proud member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and The Daughters of Isabella. She had a deep love for all forms of art, including drawing, painting, and photography. Jenny enjoyed traveling, spending time in her flower garden watching birds, and had a special love for all kinds of animals. She also loved listening to folk music.

Known for her witty and clever personality, Jenny brought joy to those around her. She was a dedicated educator, teaching second grade for many years and retired from North County then completed her teaching career at St. Joseph Catholic School in Bonne Terre, where she taught for eight more years. Jenny had a true love for children and left a lasting impact on countless young lives.

Jenny is survived by her devoted husband, James” Jim” Akins; children, Susan Anne (Scott) Ragland, James Patrick (Maria) Akins, Steven Joseph (Katie) Akins and Mary Elizabeth (Kyle) Chasteen; grandchildren, Christie, Kenzie, Sara, Josh, Brody, Fletcher and Gwen; sister, Edith “Dee Dee” (Mike) Pratte; sister-in-law, Pat AuBuchon, along with many other family member and friends.

Jenny was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Melvin AuBuchon.

Visitation will be held at C. Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Home in Bonne Terre on Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Visitation will resume Friday, January 23, 2026, at C. Z. Boyer & Son Chapel from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. Funeral Mass will follow at Immaculate Conception in Park Hills Missouri at 11:00 a.m. with Reverend Larry Huber officiating. Burial at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Bonne Terre.

In lieu of flowers, family would like donations to be made out to Pregnancy Resource Center or Covenant House.

Arrangements are under the direction of C. Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Home in Bonne Terre.