Rhetta Akamatsu

Rhetta Akamatsu of Kennesaw, passed away Wednesday, February 9, 2022, at the age of 70.

Our beloved Rhetta has been many things to many people. She was an Author, a supporter of the arts, and a staple of the Atlanta blues community. But most of all, she was a loving wife, a wonderful mother and an affectionate grandmother.

Some of her published books include “Haunted Marietta”, “T’Ain’t Nobody’s Business If I Do”, southern Crossroads: Georgia Blues” and “Ghost to Coast”

Rhetta touched many lives through her generosity, positive nature, and support. She was the person who could brighten any room with just her presence,  and she showed love and compassion to all who met her.

Rhetta will live on through our memories, her bibliography, and her beautiful family.

Rhetta was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas Rhett and Mildred M. Martin.

Her survivors include her husband, Takesi “Ken” Akamatsu; daughter, Rosie Gillespie (Tim Greer); son, Jeremy Gillespie (Jennifer); grandchildren, Cain Gillespie, William Gillespie, Sebastian Gillespie, Adeleine Jewel Gillespie; Ava Rose Guffey.