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Gospel music composer, arranger and singer born in Brookfield, Missouri May 21,1923. Inductee of both the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame (2001) and Southern Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame (2011). Composed first song Keep the Fire Burning in Me by age ten.

She is probably best known for composing the songs, “Sweet, Sweet Spirit,” “Sweet Jesus,” and “I Cannot Fail the Lord, and co-wrote “Lord, Don’t Move the Mountain” with her long-time friend, Mahalia Jackson.

Akers passed away in Minneapolis, Minnesota July 26,1995.