Sarah was born in Walker County, Alabama; she was the daughter of Reverend Daniel Wilson Akins and Trannie Smith Akins. 

She is survived by five daughters, Kathy Akins Storey (Ken), Diann Akins Morales (Ricky), Darla Akins Peace (Steve), Lori Akins McGowan, Jennifer Akins Moore (Ken); Siblings Mary Akins Thompson, Jimmy Akins, David Akins, Randy Akins, and Judy Akins Brown; Ten grandchildren, Jeremy Connor, Brandi Storey, Ashley McGowen, Blake Storey, Russell Wood, Kimberly Peace, Kyle Peace, Angelica Morales, Kelsey McGowan and Nicholas Morales; four great grandchildren, Kenadi Sprouse, Chloe McGowen, Gage Reach, and Leida Gray; a host of nieces and nephews; and dear friends The Rudd family.

She is preceded in death by her parents Daniel and Trannie Akins, a sister Mildred Akins Trapp, an infant brother, her son-in-law Craig McGowan, and her beloved nephews and niece Shannon Sullins, Jacob Sullins, Erin Drake, Bridgett Akins, and Austin Akins.