Samuel "Sam" Akin

Celebration of Life Service for Samuel “Sam” Taylor Parks Akin, 13, of Enid, will be 2:00 PM, Wednesday, at Emmanuel Baptist Church with Rev. Kevin Morgan officiating. Arrangements are by Anderson-Burris Funeral Home & Crematory. Sam was born July 30, 2004 to Joseph Parks and Brandi Renee (Hess) Akin, and passed away on Saturday, October 28, 2017, in Oklahoma City at Children’s Hospital. Sam grew up in Enid, attending St. Paul’s Lutheran School, McKinley Elementary, and Emerson Middle School. He had a vibrant personality and loved life every single day. He was known for his compassion and beautiful smile that had the power to make everyone feel a special connection. His fun-loving personality would instantly lighten up any situation and bring laughter to those around him. He was a friend to anyone who needed one and never knew a stranger, many times going out of his way to make someone feel at ease. He had a passion for football and played for the Soldiers and Enid Plainsmen. He was a dedicated brother to his teammates and thrived on the field every chance he had. Sam’s dream was to play for the Oklahoma Sooners and eventually go into the NFL. Anyone who had the chance to see him play knew he would get there and that he had a bright future. There was no doubt his hard work and dedication made him the great player he was. His compassion made him a constant leader and he encouraged others to do their very best every chance he had. Sam was in Cub Scouts for five years and lived his life representing all the traits of a Scout. He was trustworthy and loyal, never missing the chance to be cheerful every day. He was helpful, courteous and kind, making sure to assist others when given the chance. Sam was so brave and always respectful of others, and somehow still managed to make everyone laugh and smile along the way. Sam also enjoyed skateboarding, riding his scooter, playing basketball, going camping and fishing. He played video games and liked to dance, but would spend time outdoors when given the chance. Even though his desire was to always be outside doing something, he was an outstanding student and was doing very well in his advanced classes. Sam was a loving person who lived life to the fullest and although he was tragically taken from those who love him, he will live on in their hearts forever. His memory will inspire others to do what they love while never giving up on their dreams. Even in death, Sam showed us how to be selfless by being an organ donor and saving the lives of others. John 15:13: “Greater love has no one than this; to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” Sam’s faith in God encouraged him to be saved in 2012 and we feel confident that he’s been called to serve a stronger purpose than what he could do here. Sam is survived by his parents, Joe and Brandi Akin, his sister Mackenzie Akin, ‘Gramma’ Doris Akin of Hobbs, New Mexico, ‘Papa’ Jim and ‘Nana’ Lucy Hess of Enid, ‘Papaw’ Roy and ‘Menaw’ Judy Martin of Hobbs, New Mexico, uncles, aunts, cousins and other relatives. Sam is preceded in death by his ‘Pop’ Jim Bob Akin. The family encourages everyone to wear team jerseys and school shirts, or consider wearing pink as it was Sam’s favorite color. Casual dress is appropriate and recommended. Memorials may be made through the funeral home to Alva State Bank, Brandi Akin account.

Samuel "Sam" Akin

July 30, 2004 - October 28, 2017