Dee Robert Austin Jr.

1943 - 2025

Dee Robert Austin, Jr. Age 81, passed away on Friday, April 25, 2025. Born in Providence, Rhode Island on August 3, 1943, he was the only son of the late Evelyn (Hill) Dee and Robert Austin Dee. Robert spent more than 70 years in his beloved "Little Rhody," raised by his cherished mother and spending time with his sister, the late Elaine (Dee) Forrest, at the Providence home of their cherished grandparents, Florence (Hodgkinson) and Walter Hill. Robert joined the naval reserves while in high school and enlisted in the United States Navy upon graduating in 1963 from Central High School. He would joke that he joined the Navy "to see the world" but was stationed at Naval Air Station Quonset Point. In 1969, Robert finished his extended enlistment and returned home for the birth of his second child. He began a long and successful career with Xerox Corporation, where he held both management and field roles and was a member of the Xerox team that supported the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. Robert's passion for aviation and the Navy continued in civilian life. From 1993 to 2000, he served on the board of the Quonset Air Museum. A classic car enthusiast, he owned several Metropolitans, a Mustang, and a cherished Corvette Stingray. His love of cars inspired him to start a detailing business, Classic Auto Services, which allowed him to spend time with vehicles he admired and enjoyed. He was a loving father and devoted grandfather, known for instilling his deep love of animals in his family. Outings to Roger Williams Park and aquarium visits were a cherished tradition with his children and grandchildren. A lifelong dog lover, Robert had a special place in his heart for Saint Bernards. Local shelters had him on speed dial whenever one came in, calls he rarely turned down, no matter his age, such was his love for the breed. For over 30 years Robert lived in the family home he purchased in West Kingston, RI filled with wonderful memories of Richard and Mary Silveira growing up. As his dementia progressed, Robert relocated from Rhode Island to Pennsylvania to be cared for by his daughter and devoted son-in-law law, despite his protests at being in "Eagles country" as a loyal Giants fan. Thanks to their love and support, he was able to return to the ocean, spending peaceful afternoons at their home in Brigantine, NJ, sitting by the pool, playing games with his great grandson Rory, walking the dogs on the beach, and reflecting on memories of Rhode Island. Left to cherish memories made in the Philadelphia area are his daughter and son-in-law Tammy and Paul Vincent, grandson Sean Vincent and his wife Anne, great grandchildren Rory and Tate Vincent, great nephew Austin Buchanan and great niece Amy Silvas. In addition to his sister, Robert is predeceased by his son Scott Dee and his nieces Kimberly and Kerrelee Forrest. A Graveside Service will be held at noon on Monday, May 5, at Rhode Island Veterans Cemetery in Exeter. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the South Kingstown RI Animal Shelter (401-789-5515).