James Akins: key obituary facts
Is James Akins dead? Yes. James Akins died on December 29, 2025, at age 69.
Cause of death: James Akins's cause of death has not been publicly confirmed.
What was James Akins known for?
James Akins was a Musician.
More about James Akins
Born: June 15, 1956.
Occupation: Musician.
Genres: Classical.
Instruments: Tuba, Native American flute.
Years active: 1981–2025.
James Milton Akins, an American tubist and music professor best known for his association with the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, died on December 29, 2025, at age 69.
Born in Savannah, Georgia, on June 15, 1956, he studied the tuba with Ronald Bishop, Arnold Jacobs, Robert Ryker, Fredrick Schaufele Jr. and Robert LeBlanc.
Akins earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Ohio State University, where he later served as associate professor of tuba and euphonium. He was principal tuba of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra from 1981 to 2021 and also played with the Columbus Symphony Orchestra Brass Quintet and the Ohio Brass Quintet. He was a player and maker of Native American flutes.
James Milton Akins (June 15, 1956 – December 29, 2025) was an American tubist, music professor, and both a player and maker of Native American flutes. He was also best known for his association with the Columbus Symphony Orchestra.