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Austin Blackburn Obituary
Celebration of life: 2 p.m. Monday at The Met Church. Visitation: The family will receive friends 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday at The Met Church, 801 Keller Pkwy., Keller.
Memorials: In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Church On The Lot, P.O. Box 92422, Southlake 76092.
Austin had a passion for football, snowboarding, skim boarding, scuba diving, traveling, street hockey, wrestling, power lifting, skate boarding, wake boarding, golfing, swimming and spending time with his friends. He always loved to have friends and family around.
Austin was a 2002 graduate of Keller High School. He attended Mary Hardin-Baylor University, Bethany College in West Virginia and Austin Community College. Austin won a gold medal in swimming at the Junior Olympics and was also an All-District linebacker at Keller High.
Austin had a special talent as a swim instructor for special needs children. He was also active in Church On The Lot Street Ministries with John Shelton.
Survivors: Parents, Farron and Jennifer Blackburn; sisters, Lauren Florence and husband, Jared, and Hanna Blackburn; grandparents, Marvin and Janie Donnell and Larry and Jan Blackburn; great-grandmother, Mary Lou Donnell; uncles, Forrest Blackburn and wife, Susan, Brandon Blackburn and wife, Jamie, and Jeff Donnell and wife, Kim; seven cousins; and two nephews.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Austin Blackburn
Sponsored by Farron Blackburn.
Lil sis
January 15, 2024
Lil sis
January 15, 2024
Lil sis
January 15, 2024
Lil sis
January 15, 2024
Lil sis
January 15, 2024
Forrest & Susan
December 24, 2022
We thank you so much for the good memories, lighting up the get togethers and fun times with your smile Austin, we think about you all of the time and even more so around the holidays and Christmas,
We love ya,
Forrest & Susan
Kate Brown
December 25, 2021
Thinking of you today Austin and wishing you were still here
Bebe Blackburn
December 7, 2020
Austin you were the 1st grandson of 6 grandchildren and you were my heart throb from day one❤Your beautiful smile your dimples & the twinkle in your eyes made everyone want to be near & dear to you. Thank you for naming me Bebe because not only grandkids call me that but all their friends & parents do too. I think of you & what a beautiful person you were inside as well as outside. You never met a stranger & had such a wonderful way of making others feel so special. You loved all sports & were so talented. I’m so thankful that your parents gave you so many opportunities to excel in so many ways. The Holidays are so hard because the last time we talked was Christmas Eve and Christmas evening! You were so excited about coming home & seeing everyone. It’s been 13 years since the most heartbreaking news of you leaving us on Dec. 26,2007 came but I know you’ve been close & will meet us as we join you again one day! I can still picture you as if it was yesterday! You’d call to meet me in Dallas at the Galleria Mall to have a shopping & lunch date. As soon as you’d see me you’d be smiling that million dollar smile & run to grab me swinging me around! No one has ever said Bebe like you could or hugged me so tight. Thank you for never outgrowing spending time with me & lighting up my days for 23 years. I miss you every single day & just so sorry that all Lauren’s children & all our great grandchildren will never know the Austin our family knew. You’ll always be remembered with love by your family & friends.We feel so blessed to have made so many lifelong memories with you. You were my Angel then & my guardian Angel now! I will love you forever & ever, your Bebe
Forrest Susan Blackburn
September 23, 2019
Really blessed and thankful to be made up with the part of my personality and character that is due to being around you from the day you were born.
It is amazing to me that as busy as I get I have not had a day go by without thinking of you, very thankful our families have made so many good, fun memories.
Me & Susan were in the pool today, another summer coming to an end, thinking we wished the kids and grandkids could have been here swimming with us and been here more this summer but we discussed how busy everyone is with sports, school, their own pools, boats, etc... Really brought back memories of you and all of the kids growing up learning to swim, ski, barefoot, boating, camping, etc...
Susan started talking about how you are the sweetest, nicest person she has ever known and we talked about how much of a everlasting positive impact you made on so many people. Nicole, Devin and Blake looked up to you more than we realized when we all share memories and really something when friends of theirs talk and we hear how much they looked up to you.
I have never had anyone say my name Forrest like you, I am so glad I can remember the sound of how you said it and so very glad I can remember the sound of you laughing to go with your incredible smile.
You know two of the craziest memories I share are the old truck-bed camper I had at the hunting lease down near Mason, TX for us to sleep in, you got up in that top bunk, still do not know how those little pullout slats held you, during middle of the night we all woke up to you yelling out Fear The Spear , then you rolled out of the top bunk, hit the floor below, me and Farron jumped out of our beds to find you still sound asleep in your sleeping bag laying in the floor, we didn't see any blood so we left you alone, crawled back in our sleeping bags, woke you up in a few hours and you didn't remember anything so we headed out to hunt (none of us ever forgot Keller football moto Fear The Spear after that night)
There is a hit song out right now and the lyrics talk about raise up your beer to those that aren't here and those that didnt make it back home You know I'm not a drinker but you also know I have raised whatever I have been drinking lately when that song is playing, it helps me to grit my teeth and fight back a few less tears when I picture you smiling and laughing at me when I hold up my tea or soda, instead of a beer , to that part of that song, those are the types of things I would do and you would always bust out that smile and that laugh of yours and then tell me how crazy I am .
I know you are aware of how many our family does miss these days when we all get together, that haven't made it back home, at the same time you know how many young kids we have between all of the families, all sharing their part now in making so many more good fun memories.
Susan talked with me today in the pool missing everyone, she said we know there aren't any perfect parents, but, we were the best parents we knew how to be and Farron & Jennifer were too and all of our kids are good kids. We Love Ya Man (I still say Man alot like you did, hey, maybe you got that from me, but dang I can never say Man to sound as good as you can )
Kate Anderson
March 27, 2018
Thinking of you today Austin. I still miss you all the time.
Heather (Wellington) Feely
April 10, 2013
Farron & Jennifer,
I have wondered over the years how you and your children were doing...I am so saddened to find your names in this way on the computer. I am so sorry for your loss of Austin. I remember him and Lauren as such GREAT kids. I hope that time and your FAITH has begun to heal your pain. Much love from your old friend,
Anderson Kate
January 16, 2013
Austin, I miss you everyday and think of you all the time. Your laugh and big grinning smile get me thru the tough days. You were such a great friend and I will always carry a little bit of that with me. I hope you are happy and laughing out loud somewhere putting a smile on those around you wherever you may go. Thanks for everything Austin.
Allison Divine
August 25, 2010
I just learned that you passed away. I don't know how or why but I am so sad to learn this about my high school friend! You were great in everything you did, including being a friend. I will miss you.
Carla Roney
August 25, 2010
Samuel Gilliland
March 5, 2010
Austin...I love you so much. You are in my thoughts every single day.
Wade Benkendorfer
January 26, 2009
Farron,
My deepest and most sincere condolences to you and your family. I had no idea and cannot begin to comprehend your loss. May God hold him ever so close.
hannah blackburn
November 2, 2008
its so weird how god can just take someone off the face of the earth so fast. it sso unreal that i never believed its true i know it sprobably hard to understan. and probably hard to grasp. but im just a lil sis who needs to hear the sound of her brothers voice. i need him in my life.i still cnat belive the fact that he has almost been gone for a year. befor i just thought you would randomely show up on the door step. but i realized its not that way this is reality. im alway slooking up at you austin! you will always be my big brother nobody can ever take oyur place. i love you your my guardian angel now.
your lil sis hannah blackburn.
Lauren Blackburn
April 28, 2008
Austin... He was beautiful. Every day felt a little safer because I knew my brother was still here and at some point if I ever needed him there he would be! He worried about me and my children like a father worries for his child. His love was unconditional to everyone. When we were little I just wanted to be like him. I wanted to draw in crowds of people with my amazing personality and have everyone like me like they did him. He was amazing. I miss him so much. I feel a whole half of me has gone away and I am searching for it every day. I panic when I cant find it because then I realize it wont be here again. My child tells me Austin's not scared anymore and it gives me peace b/c I know he is finally not, but it does not change my broken heart for now. I have to let my heart mend for him. My best friend is gone. When I was scared at night he was there.... When someone hurt my feelings he was there... when I got a reward he was there... He held my babies... He played basketball with my boy. Jayden will never forget that day. Thank you Austin for giving us all great memories to keep forever. Cant wait to see you again. I miss you more than you knew down here, but now I guess you have figured it out. I love you!
Tate Lamb
April 2, 2008
Dear Blackburn's,
I just had to say I'm so sorry for yalls loss. Austin and I were great friends when we were kids and I cannot imagine how hard these past months have been for you. I'm so sorry you guys. My stomach dropped out when I heard the news and just know that you will be in my prayers. As you know, my childhood was rough because of what happened to my Dad, but always know, even when it sucks like this, God is without a doubt always in control and you just have to give everything to Him. Once again, I'm so sorry and I'll be praying for your family.
In Christ,
Cyndi Lamb Curry
April 2, 2008
Farron & Jennifer,
I have not been able to think of much else today since I got your phone call this am. Thanks so much for tracking me down and calling me. I am so sad for your loss. I really have no words. I can't imagine the pain of losing a child. There is nothing like it. Do know we love you guys and have never forgotten you. I will let my boys know...I have not called them since both are in class today. You will be in my prayers. Love to all of you, Cyndi
Teagan Dalton
April 2, 2008
I am very upset and can imagine your pain. God Bless you all. I was just googeling because I was wondering what he was up too. I figured he ran a multi million dollar company or was on the cover of a Polo magazine. Really I just felt sick when I read this. I am a little in shock. My heart will be saddened forever about this but good thing we will see him in Heaven, I know thats where his heart is.
hannah blackburn
March 26, 2008
i love you so much austin. i miss you a whole bunches!! i miss the advice and the hugs u give me and tell me you love me so much!!! you were the best big brother a lil sister could ever ask for! i could have never ever asked for better you're always in my heart
Todd Vaughn
February 20, 2008
Farron & Jennifer,
Words can not express how truly saddened we are of the loss of Austin. He appeared to be full of life just like his dad. You guys did a great job with Austin and Lauren. I know God is proud of you both. Farron thank you for your giving nature and being a man of passion. You and Jennifer have been on my mind many times over the years. I am praying for you both.
Doug Stufflebean and Family
February 18, 2008
Farron and Jennifer
My family and I just heard of the loss of your son Austin and want you to know how truly sorry we are. We pray that the Lord ministers to your lives and brings peace to your hearts during this very tough time. If we can do anything for you please let us know. Your family is in our prayers.
God bless.
Doug and Lisa Stufflebean and Sons
Hart Steen
February 12, 2008
Dear Blackburns,
I just wanted to extend my sympathies during this time. Austin always made an impression. Its a joy to say I knew him...
Its also one to know we'll see him again soon...
HS
Janis Steen
February 12, 2008
Dear Blackburn Family:
My son, Hart Steen, just called to tell me of the death of Austin. Hart graduated from Keller High as well, and played on the football team with Austin. I subbed while living in Keller and had the pleasure of meeting and enjoying the smile and enthusiasm of Austin. Our prayers as a family are with you and yours. God is the one who will provide strength and assurance during such times, and I KNOW HE will see you through.
In Him,
Gene, Janis, Hart and Cade Steen
Bob Hamm
February 4, 2008
Farron,
I am so very sorry for the loss of your beloved son. I feel your pain, but I raise the hurting which you are feeling up in prayer to the One who heals all for us.
I am so glad you called me. I am here for you always.
Bob
Sharon Battles
February 2, 2008
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Blackburn and Lauren,
I was never so shocked to see Austin's picture in the The Keller Citzen. Who could miss that smile and handsome man. I am always intersted in my former students and other students fom Glenfiew Chistian School. This made my heart sad to know that Austin's life was cut short, but reading of his accomplishments and iterests made me proud to know that his lessonslearned at GCS were carried on after leaving. Losing a child is the most difficult thing for a parent, but we must remember that God only lends them to us until he is ready or them. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. May your faith see you through this difficult time.
In His Love,
Mrs. Sharon Battles
lisa easterwood
January 10, 2008
Dear Farron and Jennifer;
Although did not know Austin, I am sure he was handsome and smart. My heart goes out to you and your family. We shared many good memories at South Waco as children. Please let us know if there is anything we can do for you. You have a great support system! May God Bless. Love, Lisa Ferrell Easterwood
andy holloman
January 7, 2008
austin is a great person to his friends and family to ok he was a great football player in high school ok he was there to see me to get my jacket
Mike and Vicki Phillips Family
January 6, 2008
Faron, Jennifer and Lauren:
We have just heard the news about Austin this evening and we too felt a void at the thought of him passing on in the Spring of his life. We rejoice because we know that Austin knew the Lord and that he is truly having an Awesome Experience that we all can only imagine. Our prayers will be regularly including your family.
Austin had a smile that would light up a room and a laugh that was so contagious,I can still hear it. We remember so many fun times with Austin and your family whether it was over nighters, playing sports, birthday parties, celebrating, taking the kids to the mall, checking our schools together, lunches at our kitchen talbe, the boys exploring the creek in our back yard or regular school activities at Glenview Christian School. I remember him telling me that Matthew was the best buddy he ever had up to that time in his life. When talking about the joy of knowing Austin tonight we each got a smile as Mike recalled how he loved to make his special sandwich with Potato Chips on the Sandwich. We then recalled how he wanted to be sure that they had fire works at the 6th grade Dude Ranch trip so he tried to bring him on the airplane with him, not thinking a thing about anything but how much fun it would be for everyone, until the airlines found out. Every time we would meet him somewhere he would come up and tap us on the shoulder or run to us with a big smile and a big hug. We love that boy and look forward to the day that he will greet us in heaven with that smile and giant hug. We all thought that one day he would be on toothpaste commercials because his smile was so beautiful, mostly from all the enthusiasm that bubbled from within him. Who knows they might be putting him in charge of the pyro technics display in heaven. Should that be, knowing he gives his all to everything it will be an amazing display, I am sure he has swam in the River of Life by now and experienced so many heavenly rewards and a crown of life with many jewels. We are looking forward to the day when we will have a great tour of heaven, Austin style, when we each arrive.
If we had of known sooner we would have made every effort to be there as a family; as our family each loves each of you so much and hold you close to our hearts during this time and always. We hope to get with you some time in the near future and want you to know that you did a great job with your son. You raised a handsome, kind, generous, talented, sensitive, loving son. I remember how much he wanted to excel in swimming to make you proud of him. Lauren, I always remember how he would look after you. Know your brother loves you so much and that is something you can be proud of and always carry with you. Love never passes away and will continue for eternity.
Please contact us should you need a prayer, someone to share great memories with or just a visit with a friend. We are here for all of you. During this time we know God will make the depths of his grace known to you and we believe for Him to multiply your joys back to you over and over again and that the joy of the Lord will become your strength.
It is so amazing, not knowing this we drove past where your subdivision was the last we knew of the other night looking at Christmas lights and Mike and I talked about you guys and said we wondered how you and your family were doing. This had to be about the same time you were having your services. I am sure the Lord was putting you on our hearts, even not knowing the situation.
Again, we love you and would be blessed to be here for you any way we can, and will be faithful to pray.
Mike, Vicki, Matthew and Valerie Phillips
andy holloman
January 6, 2008
he was funny to anyone we miss you so much like everyone iam in your prayers to blackburn family
Dina Dwyer-Owens
January 5, 2008
How sad I was to hear the news about your son. From everything I've heard and read he was an amazing young man. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Jodi Cowan
January 5, 2008
To the Blackburn Family,
I am so sorry for the loss of Austin. There are so many good memories to remember. He was a light that shone bright and touched everyone he met. My prayers and thoughts are with you at this time. Love you all Aunt Jodi.
JANIE WAUGAMAN
January 5, 2008
I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER AUSTIN AS A
VERY KIND PERSON. HE PRESENTED ME WITH MY KELLER HIGH SCHOOL LEATHER JACKET.
Paula Jill Hawley (Back)
January 5, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Debbie Trevino (Pliscott)
January 4, 2008
Dear Loved Ones,
My heart is saddened at your loss, but I know you are comforted in knowing that you will reunite with your precious son again in Heaven. You are in my thoughts and prayers today (and always). God Bless You all. Much Love to you.
Debbie Hood (Maiden - Dwyer)
January 3, 2008
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your son, Austin. Although I didn't know him, I have two sons of my own (Chase goes to school with Brooke) and can't even imagine what you are going through. We are praying for your entire family that God will see you through this. Austin sounds like he touched many lives in his short time on earth and I am sure you are very proud of him. May God bless you all.
Brent Baxley
January 2, 2008
Blackburn and Donnell Families,
My heart breaks for you at the loss of your precious son, Austin. Reading what others have written has given me a gimpse of what an amazing young man he was. Know that God's amazing grace and abundant comfort will surround you at this time. Holly and I loss a daughter, Anna, after just a few hours with her. I remember the pain and grief that we experienced. But we also experienced God's amazing grace through this difficult time in our lives. We are praying for you, and know that the God of all comfort will carry you.
Megan Griesse
January 2, 2008
My deepest sympathy goes to your family during this difficult time. Austin holds a very special place in my heart, and he will be missed sincerely. May God bring you peace and comfort.
Brent Baxley
January 2, 2008
Blackburn and Donnell Families,
Oh my heart breaks for you and your loss. Know that Holly and I are praying for God's amazing grace and abundant peace to be upon you. Reading what others have written has given me a glimpse into the life of Austin. He was an amazing young man. Losing a child is heartwrenching. Holly and I lost our daughter Anna, after only a few hours with her. I cannot imagine the pain of losing a child whom you have poured your whole life into. I do know that God will be with you, and strengthen you in the coming days and years. Praying for you all.
Karen Carr Meeks
January 2, 2008
I graduated with Austin from KHS in 2002. He was a stellar guy and athlete. The world is a little darker without him in it - my sincere condolences. May God be with you in these tragic times.
Louis and Raylynn Rosen
January 2, 2008
Dear Farron and Jennifer,
Louis and I were so saddened by news of your loss. I have often thought of Austin. I always knew he would become a dynamic young man. We were so blessed to have been part of his life. Please know you are trully in our thoughts and prayers.
Perri (Smith) Johnson
January 2, 2008
Farron and Jennifer,
My thoughts and prayer are with you and your family. I am so sorry for your loss. God Bless.
Cathryn Hartt
January 2, 2008
I am so sorry to hear of your great loss. I know no words that can seem appropriate to ease your sorrow, but perhaps knowing that Austin made a difference and will be remembered by those he touched will help a little. Though he was in my life only a short time, I remember his joy and spirit well. His heart was huge and he always brightened the room just by walking in. The world is better because he was here...his light remains forever in those he touched.
Mike & Judy Jones
January 2, 2008
Marvin & Janie, We are so sorry to hear of the loss of your grandson. He sounds like a terrific young man and I know God has big plans for him. Please know that you are in our prayers.
God Speed.
Phylicia Johnson Hernandez
January 2, 2008
Dear Blackburn Family,
I am so sorry and deeply saddened to hear of your loss. I did not know Austin but I can tell he is a true Blacburn through and through--a good person. He seems just like the child we all once were growing up in South Waco and playing and swimming at the boys club on Richter! I want everyone of you to know (L,J,F,F,B) that you have impacted my life with your goodness and I have never forgotten you. I often wonder what you are doing now.
I will be in prayer for you and I hope that you will be able to find some peace during this most difficult time. My love and prayers are with you all.
Claudia Mckinney
January 2, 2008
We know of your greief and pain over the loss of Austin. Keep in your thoughts where he is right now.
Love, John,Cluadia Mckinney
Landon,Eva Mayeaux
& John Mckinney 2nd
Lisa O'Connor
January 2, 2008
I am so very sorry for your loss. Prayers are with you in this difficult time.
Kathy Brindley
January 1, 2008
I will always remember Austin as a fun loving person who cared about his family, friends, and community. He was a great athlete and a good friend to both my older children, Jason and Dayna. I admired his spirit. I am so sorry for your loss.
John Price
January 1, 2008
It was my pleasure having the Privilege of coaching Austin.
I am guilty of calling Austin A B.
We had fun together.
John (coach) Price
Sharon Davidson
December 31, 2007
I am so sorry for your loss. I lost my son Jody,a Keller High graduate in June of 1998 in a car accident in Austin, Tx. I know your pain. There is a group called HOPE, which is helping other parents endure. It meets every Thursday at the Richland Hills Church of Christ on 820 across from Walmart at 7pm. If you are interested please contact me by email.
Clay Brown
December 31, 2007
Dear: Blackburn Family
As I sat and listened to all the wonderful things that were said about Austin today I stopped and felt an inner peace within. He really was a hero! He was an inspiring person and touched the lives of so many including my family and my self. He was the most selfless person I have ever meet. Just being around him the little time that I was he some how had the ability to make you feel special and that to me meant the world. I remember the little thing he did like when we were out at the river house, even though he had his girl friend or all his buddies there he always seemed to make time for Devin and I. Bing much younger than him it seemed that he had better thing to do but that was never the case with Austin. He was a friend to all who knew him and still is. Even though he is no longer whit us physically he is still in our hearts.
Clay Brown & Family
Friends are like windows through which you see out into the world and back into yourself... If you don't have friends you see much less than you otherwise might.
Author: Merle Shain
Amanda Simmons
December 31, 2007
Dear Blackburn Family,
I just want to tell you that Austin always put a smile on others faces.I went to High school with him. May you have the love from family friends, and the great Lord above to carrie you thru this time of lost. I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
Charles Cummings
December 31, 2007
Farron:
It is most difficult for me to imagine any loss greater than the loss of a Child. You and your family have my most sincere sympathy.
May your son have Eternal Rest and may Light Perpetual always shine upon him.
Shawna Sebastian
December 31, 2007
I am truely sorry for your loss. Austin and i where in there same graduating class together. He was a great person and everyone loved him. I will keep your family in my prayers.
Lori "Turner" Sisneroz
December 31, 2007
Although it has been many many years since I have seen the Blackburn boys, I can see that their good looks and athletic ability went on to the next generation. My prayers are with each and everyone of you. May God Bless you all.
Taylor Pennington
December 31, 2007
Farron, Jennifer, and Lauren-
I am so sorry to hear about Austin. I pray that God will comfort you in this hard time. I know that the Lord welcomed Austin with open arms to his House. I will never forget as a child singing that song with Austin and you, Lauren...Big, Big House!!! I love ya'll and you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Alison Rodman Wallace
December 31, 2007
Austin was a special guy, one of my favorite people. My heart is broken for your sweet family. I pray that the God of comfort would hold you and keep you. Love you all
Tannis Velez
December 31, 2007
Blackburn Family,
God has called upon Austin to join him in eternal peace. Im very sorry for your loss of such a great and talented young man. He will be missed greatly by many! I can't begin to imagine the pain and sorrow you feel, but i will keep you prayers.
Austin Blake Blackburn will never be fortten!
please if you need anything e-mail me .. ill be more than happy to help!
Ellen Stone
December 31, 2007
I am so sorry for your lose. You will be in my prayers. I went to "camp sunset" with Farron way back when. I saw the name and wanted you to know I'm praying for you and your family.
Brandon Cox
December 31, 2007
Jennifer, Faron and Lauren,
He was one of those people who everyone wanted to be around. He seemed to always be full of Joy. Austin will be missed.
With my deepest sympathy,
LaJuan (Flanary) Eary
December 31, 2007
Farron, Jennifer & Family
I just wanted to express my sympathy to you all in what must be a very, very difficult time. I pray that God gives you strength through it all. I know that you all have great family and friend support, and that means alot. May God bless and keep you strong.
Greg Tisik
December 31, 2007
Words of comfort are hard to find. My prayers are with you and your family. Impressions are the only things individuals have to leave us with that we can keep in our memories. You and your son left me with a very positive and honest one. Thank you both for that. My heart goes out to you. Sincerely
Mike and Deedy Fletcher
December 31, 2007
Very sorry to learn of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Mr. G Gosney
December 31, 2007
My heart cries for you with the loss of Austin. If there is any thing that I can do to help reliev the pain let me know.
Kari (Gowens) Cocke
December 31, 2007
He is a spitting image of you Farron. My heart aches for you and your family. May God give you comfort and peace and know that your friends are out here for you.
Carol Farrar
December 31, 2007
Austin was in my home several times with my son. He was always polite and kind and was very welcome there. I am so sorry. My heart hurts for you and your family. You are all in my prayers.
Samuel Gilliland
December 30, 2007
Rarely, through death, loss and pain, comes life, light, and growth, but in my life this has now become the case. My perceptions of the world and all that it entails, in the past have been warranted by experience but not validated by reality. As my best friend Austin Blake Blackburn occasionally told me, "Sam, You gotta hit it like you live". Every breath that I am allowed to take from this point on, will be dedicated to his beautiful premise. I guess you could say that through Austin's death, I was truly allowed to live. Austin my dear friend, I will never let you down. You see, guys like Austin Blake Blackburn had an unimaginable amount of passion, for existence, and love, and simply enjoying every moment, no matter how simple or mundane. He saw something in a man that was broken, unhappy, and lacking self-worth. No matter how down, or depressed this unhappy fella became, Austin Blake Blackburn, never lost sight of what made this guy, great, even if the guy did. This writer's philosophy on death still hasn't changed much, but thanks to Austin Blake Blackburn, his philosophy on life has. Simply put, I will now hit life, like I want to live. I owe you so much my dear friend. I am truly alive now more than ever thanks to your loving persistence and endless amounts of positivity. You will always survive through me and my actions, as well as the countless others you made feel whole, and worthy when they felt empty. Austin, I will make damn sure that you would be passionately satisfied with every thing I do in my life till my last breath. Thank you for saving me Austin when no one else could. I truly owe you my life sir. He was raised to be that way. He could of had no better family to teach him his amazing ways. I love you forever Austin.
Susan (Ford) Blake
December 30, 2007
Farron & Jennifer, Larry & Jan, Brandon & Jamie, Forrest & Susan,
My heart is broken for you all.
Jan & Larry, my memories of your young family filled with active boys are so vivid. I know this household that, Austin, grew up in held so much of the same excitement and love that Farron experienced as a young man. I can't imagine the void you are experiencing.
May God bless you and your family with the peace only He can give. I'm actively praying for each one of you by name tonight and will continue to do so.
I am so blessed to love your family from afar.
Jason and Estee Valendy
December 30, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time. May God's peace and comfort surround you and uphold you.
Patricia Beaty-Turman
December 30, 2007
Farron & Jennifer,
My thoughts & prayers are with you & your family.I know what you are going through right now & now the road ahead of you to come,for I lost my daughter Tabetha in a traggic accident on Dec. 11,2001.Keep your faith in God.If God brings you to it,He will bring you through it.May you find comfort in all the great memories you've made with Austin.
Patricia (Beaty) Turman Robinson, Texas
Susan Barnes
December 30, 2007
I remember Austin as an energetic and wonderful 3 year old when you lived on Cindy Ann in Lorena and he and my daughter, Mandi, played together. I cannot imagine the loss that you must feel. You are in my prayers.
Paula Sawyer
December 30, 2007
Austin will live always in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He was a very special young man with a kind and loving heart. The Sawyer Family will always remember the love he gave to Jacqui and his beautiful warm smile.
andy holloman
December 30, 2007
we are sad to
andy holloman
December 30, 2007
austin you was a great friend to me from school and football to
andy holloman
December 30, 2007
to austin family he was a good person and a great friend to he was so nice to me ok from school
Terri Burkey ( Bernard )
December 30, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Rick Connaway
December 30, 2007
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
dennis and sylvia witcher
December 30, 2007
Our prayers are with you Jennifer and Farron and family.
Wayne and Sharon Edwards
December 30, 2007
Our heart weeps with you in the loss of this dear one. May God's grace minister to you and His peace settle in your heart.
Linda Grier
December 30, 2007
I remember Austin as a sweet, handsome little boy whom I taught in 2nd grade at Florence Elementary School. May good memories lessen your sorrow.
David, Missy, Lexi and Alli Forson
December 30, 2007
We are sorry for your loss. Yall are in our thoughts and prayers. our hearts go out to you and in these days ahead.
Andrea Thompson
December 30, 2007
Although it seems like a lifetime ago, I remember countless memories with him that still bring a smile to my face. Austin knew how to love whole-heartedly and he had an unquenchable passion for life. Everything was always so new and exciting. He brought so much joy to everyone's lives he touched. There are no words to express my condolences. I love you guys so much and am praying for the Lord to bring you new comfort to get through each day.
Sharon & Wes Thompson
December 30, 2007
We will miss Austin's beautiful smile and the way he always lit up a room when he walked in. He had a way of making others always feel special. Know that we are in constant prayer for your family. We love you.
Dave Rattan
December 30, 2007
I am so sorry to hear this. My son Cory went to Glenview Christian with Austin, there are many great memories there. My God bless and comfort you during this difficult time. My prayers are with you.
Mary Plemons
December 30, 2007
You all have my thoughts and prayers now and always. I pray for your continued faith and strength for the days ahead.
Your friend always, Mary(Dominguez) Plemons
gary wilkerson
December 30, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Scott Healy and Family
December 30, 2007
I think back on the seasons we watched our young men on the field at Keller and remember how we about each one on the team. Caleb and I share in the sorrow, but also the celebration of the life of one of our stars. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Stacey McDaniels-Herrin
December 30, 2007
My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
Ann Owen
December 30, 2007
Janie and Marvin,
Please share our deepest sympathy with your family, especially Farron and Jennifer. Our hearts are broken for you.
You are all in our prayers.
Love,
Ann, Marshall, Cameron and Rachel Owen
Mel Priest
December 30, 2007
He looks just like a Blackburn, very handsome young man and popular I am sure just like his dad and uncle were with everyone. I am so sorry for your loss and have you in our prayers during this time of grief.
John Johnston
December 30, 2007
I am sorry for the loss of your son. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. I pray that your family will be comforted during this time of sorrow.
Don,Jackie,Chase, and Natalie Whittier
December 30, 2007
We will always remember Austin as a very personable, talented gentleman and friend. We send our sincere sympathy to your family for the loss of this extraordinary young man and at the same time we pray for your ability and strength to celebrate his life.
Gina Columbus (Adkins)
December 30, 2007
I am so sorry for your loss. I did not know Austin, but he sounds like he was a great person. Hold on to your faith during this difficult time.
Mary Beohm
December 30, 2007
Austin was truly an amazing young man. he will be remembered alway's.
Your in our hearts, thoughts and prayers. We loved you Austin!!! R.I.P
sylvia and dennis witcher
December 30, 2007
What a wonderful boy. The memories of him around the creekside neighbor-hood will always be with us. We are so sorry for your shocking lose. farron and jennifer our prayers are with you.
Billy and Carol Lillard
December 30, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Carolyn Goode
December 30, 2007
I am so saddened for you loss. Your old Dawson cousin, Carolyn Bruce Goode
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Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
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Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Austin Blackburn's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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