Una Belle Ako (92) of Rising Sun, Maryland, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Elkton, Maryland, she was the daughter of the late George Benton Felty and Mary Fletcher Felty (née Kirk).

Una was a woman of remarkable strength, resilience, and unwavering dedication to her family. She possessed a tremendous work ethic and did whatever was necessary to provide for her loved ones, often holding multiple jobs simultaneously. Among her many roles, she worked as a seamstress at the Bainbridge Navy Yard and at Citizens Nursing Home. Deeply patriotic, she was actively involved with the local VFW, where she found great purpose in supporting veterans and their families.

In her free time, Una enjoyed playing bingo, cheering passionately for her beloved Baltimore Orioles, and dominating the card table at Rummy—few could match her skill. She loved the simple pleasures of life, especially Maryland blue crabs and preparing meals for her family. Her fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, and coleslaw were family favorites that brought everyone together around the table. Above all, Una was a noble, caring, and deeply faithful woman for whom faith and family were the cornerstones of her life. A longtime and devoted member of River City Baptist Church, she lived her life guided by her Christian values.

In addition to her parents, Una was preceded in death by her first husband, Ray Lee Shires, and her second husband, Roland Ako.

She is survived by her children: Lloyd (Mimi) Shires, Debbie Fretwell, and Harry Shires; grandchildren: Jennifer Ragan, Kimberly (David) Mumpower, and Joseph Ragan, Jr.; nine great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren. Her family will cherish the many memories of her love, strength, and warm presence.

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, May 27, 2026[ at 11:00 AM at Brookview Cemetery, Cemetery Lane, Rising Sun, Maryland.

Una will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her legacy of hard work, faith, and devotion to family will live on through the many generations she leaves behind.