Austin "Aj" Coats

Austin Jeremy Coats, beloved son, partner, family member, and friend, passed away leaving behind a legacy of curiosity, compassion, and creativity that touched everyone who knew him. Born on July 2, 2001, in Tecumseh, Michigan, to parents Susan Coats of Tecumseh and Matthew Coats of Addison, Austin grew into a remarkable young man whose passion for learning and deep love for the world around him were evident from an early age.
Austin's interests were as vast as they were unique. A devoted lover of history-especially military history-he spent countless hours researching wars, strategies, and the stories of people who came before him. His appreciation for the natural world was just as profound; he found peace in nature and held a lifelong fascination with wildlife and the environment.
A true creative spirit, Austin immersed himself in photography, filmmaking, special effects, and music. Entirely self-taught on the drums, he filled rooms with rhythm and joy. He was a gifted linguist with an incredible talent for accents and impressions. In high school, he studied French for three years and Mandarin Chinese for one year, and he was recently teaching himself Russian simply because he loved challenging his mind. He excelled in his Audio Video Production classes for two years during high school, further fueling his passion for filmmaking and creative expression.
Austin's enthusiasm for storytelling extended into his hobbies-Dungeons & Dragons and other tabletop role-playing games, video gaming, and movie watching were among his greatest joys. He was also well known for his quirky, unforgettable fashion sense, specifically his unwavering love for Hawaiian shirts and cargo shorts.
Driven and independent, Austin set out on his own right after graduating from Tecumseh High School in 2020. He worked hard to manage his life on his own terms, putting himself through film school and graduating from the Motion Picture Institute in Troy, Michigan, in the fall of 2022. His dedication and determination were admired by all who knew him.
Austin's strength of character shone through in every aspect of his life. He was widely known as incredibly kind, respectful, and full of heart. Among friends, he was affectionately called "AJ" and lovingly considered the "dad" of the group-not only for his humor and practical advice but also for his comforting presence and, of course, his middle-aged-man fashion sense. In his youth, he practiced Taekwondo, earning several performance awards through discipline and hard work.
One of the proudest moments of Austin's life came when he was sworn into the United States Air Force on July 23, 2025. He was preparing to begin basic training on December 16, 2025, excited for the future and committed to serving with honor. He was so thrilled to learn he would be placed in a position working in Public Affairs.
In early 2019, Austin met the love of his life, Autumn Thomas, online. What started as conversations soon grew into a profound partnership. They shared countless passions, spent hours talking, and supported each other through six years of growth, dreams, and unwavering companionship. Autumn remained his closest confidant and greatest source of joy.
Austin was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Leonard Snyr; his paternal grandmother, Sarah "Sally" Frances (Page) Coats; and paternal grandfather Clyde Gary Coats.
He is survived by his mother, Susan Coats; his father, Matthew "Matt" (Robin) Coats; and his partner, Autumn Thomas. Austin is also survived by his brothers, Josh (Lindsay) Middleton and Maurice Gomez; paternal uncle, Jodie (Jene) Coats; and his maternal grandmother, Priscilla "Pat" Snyr. He leaves behind his maternal aunts and uncles Mona (Bob) Carmody, Wanda (Dave) Heinz, Len (Carrie) Snyr, Steve (Tonya) Snyr, and Julie (Phil) Helinski, as well as many cousins who loved him dearly.
Austin's circle of friends was an extension of his family, and he is survived by his closest friends-Josh Korte, Alex Brown, Connor Crim, Evan Walsh, Giovanni Lore, and Matthew Cheff-in addition to many others who supported and loved him throughout his life.
Austin will be remembered as someone with a brilliant mind, a gentle spirit, and a sense of humor that could brighten even the darkest day. His impact on those who loved him is immeasurable, and his memory will live on in the stories he told, the art he created, and the love he gave so freely.
Several friends and family have asked how they can help at this time. If you feel moved to support Austin's service or luncheon-whether by donating time or resources, please reach out to Laura Warnecke at 517-673-3208.
Funeral services for Austin will be held 1:00 p.m. Saturday, November 22, 2025 at Purse & Son Funeral Home, Tecumseh, MI with Pastor Fritz Kruse officiating. Visitation will take place from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Friday, November, 21, 2025 and also again on Saturday, November 22, from 11:00 a.m. until time of service also at Purse & Son Funeral Home, Tecumseh.
Following the service on Saturday, everyone is invited to a funeral luncheon in honor of Austin at: The Ashlar, 700 Bishop Reed Drive, Tecumseh, MI 49286