Joe Akagi

Commander Joe Louis Akagi, USN (Retired), passed away peacefully on October 9, 2025, at the age of 96. A decorated veteran, devoted husband, and beloved patriarch, Commander Akagi lived a life defined by service, scholarship, and steadfast love for family and country.  Born on January 18, 1929, Commander Akagi graduated from Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Science and later earned a Master of Science from the Naval Postgraduate School.  He served with distinction in the United States Navy for 30 years, including combat service as a Korean War and Vietnam War veteran. His valor as a combat pilot in Korea earned him the Distinguished Flying Cross, a testament to his courage and dedication.  Commander Akagi held numerous leadership roles throughout his career, most notably as the commanding officer of VT-2, one of the primary flight training squadrons at NAS Whiting Field.  Following his retirement from active duty, he continued to shape future aviators as a simulator instructor at NAS Whiting Field, sharing his deep knowledge and experience with the next generation.

He was predeceased by his cherished wife, Margaret, and is survived by his three daughters: Laura Plowman (Scott), Cindy Pyle (Dave), and Rebecca Smith (Dave). His legacy lives on through his seven grandchildren: John-Aaron Akagi Castleberry, Matthew Plowman (Jaya), Kevin Plowman (Kalee), Shannon Pierce (Brandon), Will Pyle, Grace Smith, and Bethany Costic (Calvin), and six great-grandchildren, Ilana V, Alex, Sage, Sloane, and Evit Plowman, and Violet Pierce.  

Commander Akagi was a man of quiet faith and active fellowship. He found joy in boating, fishing, and spending time with his ever-growing family. His wisdom, humility, and unwavering sense of duty left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

A service will be held on 15 October 2025 at the Rose Lawn Funeral Home in Gulf Breeze, FL to honor his life and legacy, followed by a private family internment at the Barrancas National Cemetery at NAS Pensacola. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to HeartWorks at https://donate.heartworksinc.org/give/f5050753/#!/donation/checkout or the National Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola, Florida at https://navalaviationfoundation.org/donate/, in his memory.