Obituary of Travis Lee Akin Jr.

On April 13, 2024 Travis Lee Akin, Jr. passed away at 89 years old. He became a career educator and coach, a champion of family, and a devotee of the sports of football and golf. Travis was born January 14,1935 in Maury County, Tennessee, to Willa Mae and Travis Lee Akin. It was there that his athletic abilities began to shape his life. As a proud member of the state championship 1952 football team at Central High School in Columbia, TN, he secured a scholarship in football to Middle Tennessee State University. At MTSU, his star continued to rise, when he was named Player of the Year in 1955 by coaches, sports writers, and radio sportscasters who covered the Blue Raiders. He played halfback. In 1959, Travis embarked on another chapter of his life's journey, exchanging vows with his beloved Edith whom he met in High School. Together, they forged a partnership steeped in devotion and shared purpose, laying the foundation for decades of joy and mutual support. They were together for 72 years. Joining the faculty of Satellite High School in its inaugural year (1962), he became a pillar of the community, known affectionately as "Coach Akin" to generations of students. During his years at Satellite High School, he taught physical education, coached football and golf teams, served as Athletic Director for a time, and retired as a guidance counselor in 1996. During his tenure at Merritt Island High School from 1973-1979, Travis's coaching experience provided him with the thrill of contributing to back-to-back state championships in 1978 and 1979 as offensive coordinator. He returned to SHS in 1980 where his three children would attend. He coached his son Trav in football and had his daughter Cara on the field with him as “ball girl”. An avid golfer, Travis became Club Champion several times at Suntree Country Club. On the golf course he sank multiple holes-in-one and shot his age many times in his late 60s and 70s. Perhaps Travis's greatest legacy lies in the love he shared with his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Travis is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Edith; children Cara (Jeff) Hoffman, Leah (Chad) Johnson and Travis; grandchildren Max, Holly and Ben Hoffman and Zach Blalock; and his sister Donna (Harvey) Ring. A Celebration of Life will be held at Beach Funeral Home, 1689 South Patrick Drive, Satellite Beach, from 2-4 PM on Sunday, April 28, 2024. A short service will be held at 3 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to Satellite High School, 300 Scorpion Court, Satellite Beach, FL 32937, in memory of Travis Akin. Contributions will support both the football and golf teams, honoring Travis's lifelong dedication to both sports.