Obituary

Akesa Ann Mark

August 14, 1980 - October 8, 2025

“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive
the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”   James 1:12 

Akesa Ann Mark, lovingly known as Kesa, was born on August 14, 1980, in Bogalusa, Louisiana, to Patricia Mark (Nichols) and the late David Dillion. From the moment she entered the world, her light shone brightly. Akesa was full of energy, laughter, and compassion, qualities that would define her entire life. She attended Varnado High School, graduating with the Class of 1998, where she proudly showcased her school spirit as a dedicated member of the Blue Angels Dance Team.

Akesa peacefully transitioned into eternal rest on October 8, 2025, at the age of 45. She was the very picture of love, free-hearted, nurturing, and kind beyond measure. Her presence carried warmth, her words brought peace, and her spirit left light everywhere she went.

Despite facing medical challenges, Akesa carried herself with grace, strength, and faith. Even when life tested her in ways most could never imagine, Akesa never lost her faith. She leaned on God through every storm and still found the strength to pour into others. Her grace was quiet but powerful, her strength steady, and her heart always open. No matter what she faced, she never allowed her spirit to grow bitter; instead, she kept loving, kept believing, and kept shining.

Akesa had a way of holding people together. She was a comforter, a listener, a prayer warrior in her own gentle way. She found joy in seeing others happy and peace in knowing God’s plan was greater than her pain. She carried her cross with dignity, always reminding those around her to trust God’s timing and to keep the faith, no matter what came their way. Although Akesa had no biological children of her own, she always dreamed of becoming a mother. She shared deep and meaningful bonds with the children around her, especially her niece, Za’Niyah Nichols, who had been by her side since she was a baby. Akesa also shared a close relationship with her nephew, Demond Peters Jr., until he grew older and started finding his own way. She was also blessed with a goddaughter, T’Arie Sheridan, who was not only her niece but held a very special place in her heart.

To know Akesa was to know what real love and resilience looked like. She taught us that strength doesn’t always roar sometimes it whispers, “God’s got me,” and keeps moving forward. Though her earthly journey has ended, her light lives on. Her love continues to flow through every life she touched, and her spirit remains a reminder that faith can carry you through anything.

Akesa fought the good fight, kept her faith, and now wears her crown of life in glory. Her work here is done, but her legacy will forever live on in us.

Akesa Ann Mark's precious memory will be forever cherished by her devoted mother, Patricia Nichols. She is survived by her beloved siblings: Shareca (Dennis) Smith, Kimberly S. Jackson, and Robyn (T’Arny) Sheridan, Shelita Robertson and other siblings. She also leaves behind her cherished aunts: Mae Mark, Leatrice Smith, Wynett Mark and Nellene Keys; beloved uncles: Lionel (Amenda) Mark and Odell “Jake” Weary; her nieces: T’yona Sheridan, Zaniyah Nichols, Ryleigh Sheridan, Akeisia Jackson, and T’Arie Sheridan; and her nephews: Dennis Smith Jr., Patrick Smith, Demond Peters Jr., and Landon Wilkerson. 

Akesa will be dearly missed by a host of extended family and friends who were touched by her love, kindness, and light.

Akesa was preceded in death by her loving father, David Dillion, and her grandmother, Elnora (Shelton) Robinson, her grandfather Otis Mark, whose memory she carried in her heart throughout her life.

A visitation will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025 from 3:00PM – 6:00PM at Crain and Sons Funeral Home.

A funeral service will be at 11:00AM at New Zion Baptist Church with Rev. Linza Cotton – Pastor Officiating. Interment will be held in the Robinson Cemetery. 

Crain and Sons Funeral Home – Bogalusa is in charge of arrangements.