Born August 22, 1940 in Catawba County, he was a son of the late Grover Willie Austin and Lise Ellis Austin. He was a retired forklift operator for MDI in Hickory and was a member of Bible Gospel Baptist Church. He attended St. John's Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Wanda Jane Boyles Austin, and two sisters, Bonnie Black and Joan Parson.

Survivors include his wife, Margie Lee Fredell Austin, son & daughter-in-law, Timothy & Robin Austin of Vale, daughter, Kimberely Austin of Vale, step daughter & son-in-law, Beverly & John Ellis of Vale, brother, Ronald Austin of Vale, one sister, Catherine Ingle of Icard, and one granddaughter, Kristal Austin.

Visitation will be Monday from 6:00PM until 8:00PM at Stamey Funeral Home

The funeral service will be Tuesday at 3:00PM at St. John's Baptist Church with Revs. Marty Bess and Tony Dyson officiating. The body will be placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the service.

Burial will follow at Bible Gospel Baptist Church Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Catawba Regional Hospice 3975 Robinson Rd. Newton, NC 28658.