John A. Auten Jr., born on March 18, 1949, was the beloved son of the late John A. Sr. and Ivey Auten of Albemarle, NC. He passed away peacefully on June 18, 2025, surrounded by family and love. He was preceded in death by his younger brother, Robert Vann Auten.

John's life was defined by his love for family. Family gatherings, shared meals, and special occasions were his favorite moments. Whether marked by laughter or tears, he always ensured that love and connection were at the heart of everything. He made it clear that through joy and sorrow, the bond of family would always prevail.

Beyond family, John had two lifelong passions that shaped both his professional and personal journey. He knew early on that his calling was to work for the benefit of young people. This led him to a fulfilling career helping youth and their families. His career began in Rockingham, NC, as a Juvenile Court Counselor. He often said that he rarely worked with children "in" trouble, but more often with children "with" trouble.

In 1994, John was transferred to Shelby, where he became the Chief Court Counselor for Cleveland and Lincoln Counties. In this role, he achieved many of his professional goals, culminating in his retirement in 2005. For his significant contributions, he was honored with the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine.

Retirement did not end his service. He joined Pathways Mental Health as a Court Liaison. However, he then became deeply involved as one of the leaders in developing and expanding the Truancy Court Project, partnering with local judges, attorneys, and schools to reduce student dropout rates by supporting parents in taking a more active role in their children's education. His impact extended to Cleveland and Lincoln County schools, leaving a lasting legacy.

Alongside his professional endeavors, John found another way to support young people through high school basketball officiating. Beginning as a young on-court official, he quickly gained respect and rose through the ranks, becoming a clinic leader, board member, and observer. Over his 40-year officiating career, he earned numerous awards, including the esteemed Gold Whistle Award from the NCHSAA.

John's final years were surrounded by those he loved most. At the heart of this love was his devoted wife, Margie. She was far more than a caregiver--Margie was his rock, his best friend, and his greatest ally. Their love story began in October 1980, and by the following August, they embarked on a journey together that spanned over four decades. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams. Margie's strength and nurturing spirit helped guide them through every challenge, and together they raised their three children, Jace, Nat, and Katie. Whether it was cheering on the kids at school events, gathering for family dinners, or sharing quiet moments at home, Margie and John created a life together that was rich in love and devotion, a partnership that anchored their family and carried them through every season of life.

John's family includes his eldest son, Jace Auten, and wife, Angela, of Polkville, along with their three children, Alex, Natalie, and Tomas; his son, Nat Auten, and wife, Jennifer, of Hickory, and their daughter, Saylor; his daughter, Katie Mayes, and husband, Tommy, of Altamonte Springs, FL; and his nephew, Josh English, and wife, Heather, of Hendersonville, and their children, Ethan and Rayne; and his nephew, Kevin English, and wife Jenny, of Columbus, NC. Neal and Trudy Watkins of Rockingham, were lovingly known to his children as Uncle Neal and Aunt Trudy, sharing their steady love and guidance through the years. He was also deeply blessed by the steadfast love, kindness, and support of many cherished friends who enriched his life in countless ways.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Shelby Presbyterian Church for the Youth Program, or Hospice of Cleveland County.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at 4:00 PM at Shelby Presbyterian Church. The family will greet friends immediately following the service.

Arrangements are being handled by Stamey-Tysinger Funeral Home & Cremation Center of Fallston.