Samuel J Austin

Brother Samuel James Austin (SJ) was born June 26, 1924, in Lisman, AL to the late Agnes Austin and Thomas H. Edwards, Sr. He confessed Christ at an early age and joined Shiloh CME Church where he served faithfully as a member until his death.

SJ was joined in matrimony to the late Callie Thomas Austin in 1947.  To this union they were blessed with three children, Aldridge G. Austin, Gail P. Watts, and Anita F. Austin.

He was enlisted in the Army of the United States from June 17, 1943, to December 28, 1945 during World War II. He received a World War II Veterans Diploma from Choctaw County High School in 2007.  SJ Austin was a dedicated worker. He worked over 40 years as a Wood Mill Operator at Georgia-Pacific Naheola Paper Mill in Pennington, AL until his retirement.  He enjoyed farming-raising livestock, gardening, and watching his favorite baseball team, Los Angeles Dodgers. 

The Angels awaiting Samuel James Austin’s arrival into God’s heavenly kingdom include his wife Callie Thomas Austin; Parents Agnes Austin and Thomas H. Edwards, Sr; Brothers Preacher Austin, Thomas S. Austin, Eugene Graham, Robert C. Chatman; Sisters Annie M. Edwards, Paulina A. Ely, and Lillie A. Roberts.

SJ’s memory as a dedicated father, treasured grandfather, caring uncle, and loving friend; will forever live on in the hearts and minds of the loved ones he leaves behind: Children Aldridge G.  Austin of Atlanta, GA; Gail P. (Hosie) Watts of Sterling Heights, MI; Anita F. Austin of Antioch, TN; Cedric V. Gude, Sr. of Knoxville, TN; Brother Thomas H. Edwards, Jr. of Chesterfield, MI; Devoted Niece Bertha L. Jones of Lisman, AL; and a host of Grandchildren, Great-Grandchildren, Nieces, Nephews, Relatives, and Friends.