WILMINGTON — Betsy C. Akerhielm passed away on March 16, 2025, at Bradley Creek Health Center in Wilmington, NC.
She was born on December 25, 1930, in Camp Hill, PA to the late W. Gardner and Martha Hamilton Conklin.
Betsy is survived by her daughters Kathryn Gardner Akerhielm and Laura Akerhielm Druebbisch (Bernd), and her sons David Robert Akerhielm (Lynn) and James William Akerhielm (Karen). She is preceded by her beloved husband, David A. Akerhielm.
She was a proud and loving Grammy to her Gang of Nine: Julia and Caroline Schultz; Bethany Akerhielm Allison (John) and Valerie Akerhielm; Nicole, Carl and Ellen Druebbisch; and Nathan and Emma Akerhielm.
Betsy, a member of Alpha Chi Omega sorority, graduated from Bucknell University, where she met David. She earned her degree in Mathematics. Betsy and David married shortly after college graduation and began their lives together in Seaford, Delaware. They also lived in Indiana, Ohio, Oklahoma, Florida and New Jersey.
As her children grew up, Betsy pursued some additional education and, subsequently, worked for many years as a tax advisor at H&R Block.
Betsy and David retired to the beach in Wilmington, NC in 1996. Betsy was active in non-profits as well as bridge, book, investment and walking clubs. She and David enjoyed travelling and exploring, both locally and abroad. Betsy was known for her warmth, friendliness, curiosity and keen observation skills.
Born: December 25, 1930 Place of Birth: Camp Hill, PA
Death: March 16. 2025 Place of Death: Wilmington.
Visitation will be held Saturday, March 22nd at 1pm at Andrews Market Street Chapel.
A graveside service for family and friends will follow at 2pm at Oleander Memorial Gardens.
Memorial contributions may be made to Little Chapel on the Boardwalk (2 West Fayetteville Street, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480) or Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity (3310 Fredrickson Road, Wilmington, NC 28401).
