Stella Akridge

Stella Akridge was born September 5, 1955 in Dougherty County, Albany, Georgia to Hal and Sarah Taylor Akridge.  In 1973, she graduated from Ravenwood Academy, Meigs, GA.  She enrolled in Valdosta State College and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. Later, she earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Albany State University, graduating with Suma Cum Laude honors.

For the past twenty-three years, Stella resided in Metter, GA.  For several years, she was employed as a counselor at The Emanuel County Detention Center, Twin City, GA. This was her most favorite job, her calling.  Stella was a positive influence on the many detainees assigned to her.  With laser focus, she counseled them to make better life decisions.   She truly cared for these men and had high expectations for them.

Stella was a colorful and creative person.  She loved bright clothes and jewelry.  She enjoyed writing and storytelling.  One of her short stories was published by a literary guild.  She told tales of inspiration and motivation.

Stella was a people person and loved to talk with family and friends.  She was a member of Cedar Street Baptist Church in Metter.  There, she grew in faith and love for our Lord Jesus Christ.  There, she found Christian love and care.  Her Cedar Street friends showed immense love for Stella during her last months on Earth, as she received many cards, phone calls, prayers and visits from them.

Stella was a cat lover.  Her favorite cats were Samson and Henry.  Her fur babies gave her companionship and comfort.  She also loved music, especially the music of Elton John and attended several of his concerts. 

Stella was preceded in death by her parents, Hal and Sarah Akridge and her brother-in-law, Ray Coursey. Those left to cherish her memories are: one sister, Charlotte Coursey; one nephew, Justin Jones (Amy); one niece, Catie McWhirter (Philip); four great-nieces and nephews, Sophie and Zach McWhirter and Langston and Eliza Jones; one aunt, Voncile Franklin (Ted); one uncle, David Taylor (Paula), extended family members to include; Flando Hobbs, Johnnie Mae Atkinson and Cynthia Bryan.

The Staff of Whitaker Funeral Home is honored to support the Akridge family with Dignity, Respect and Integrity.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Stella Akridge, please visit our Tree Store.