Austin James Sprague

"I like to picture Jesus in a tuxedo T-shirt because it says I want to be formal, but I'm here to party." - Cal Naughton Jr. (Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby)

Austin J. Sprague-an incredible man, father, husband, and friend-tragically passed away on January 22, 2026, at the age of 28. Born on March 12, 1997, Austin lived a life full of adventure, dark humor, and extreme sarcasm.

A typical obituary would list surviving family, predeceased family members, and, if applicable, the cause of death. I personally couldn't think of anything Austin would hate more. In the following paragraphs, I will attempt to capture Austin's essence as a husband, father, and friend. I can only hope it does him justice.

Austin was an incredible husband and my best friend. Although I only had the privilege of being married to him for one year, in the ve we were together he made me feel like we had been married for fty. Austin was brutally honest, and I loved that about him. I never had to guess what he was thinking-he just told me. He always prioritized us: going on dates as often as possible, frequenting LongHorn or the golf course, bringing me a soda or a cookie from the store every night after work without fail. But my favorite thing of all-every morning he'd wake me up, kiss me on the forehead, and tell me how much he loved me, and every day he meant it more than the last. We never stopped falling in love; it never got old, just stronger and truer. He was faithful, loyal, and so kind, even in times when I didn't deserve it. He was my anchor. I am so incredibly lucky for the time I had with him, and sel shly, I wish I could have one hundred more years just like the last ve.

As a father, Austin was strong, protective, and incredibly loving. He showed our boys daily how much he loved them through words and actions. There was never a dull moment in our house-wrestling around, making them " y" with one hand so they felt like Superman. He made our boys laugh deep and often. I truly don't believe there was a soul ignorant enough on this planet to touch our family, or there would've been literal hell to pay. Every night when he walked in the door, the sound of at-footed running and Tasker yelling "Daddy!" will echo in my mind forever. Accompanied by that sound is the image of Tasker running and jumping into his arms, causing Austin's infectious smile to emerge. He would pick up Kayce directly after, saying, "Hello, little nug!"-which was always returned with a toothless grin, a wiggle, and a fart. Austin's smile and laughter could light up a room, but every day it lit up our house and our hearts. He was so proud to be their dad. He was the fun parent-dirt bikes, four-wheelers, hanging them upside down just to see them smile. I know in the coming years I will ask myself daily, "What would Austin do?" because I want those boys to end up just like him.

As a friend-there are so many words to describe him, I don't think ten pages would do him true justice. So I will be honest and frank, just like him. Austin was the friend who would give you the literal shirt off his back; he would suffer quietly so others wouldn't have to. He was incredibly intuitive. He knew when something was wrong and always lent a shoulder or an ear. Austin was always ready and willing to help; he would drop everything for a friend. He was easy to talk to-you could talk to him about nothing for hours. He loved playing Call of Duty with his friends at night. We referred to it as "Dad time." He deserved that relaxation after providing for us all day. I will miss the playful banter echoing through the house, although some of the phrases are just not appropriate for the Monday morning paper. Austin loved cars, motorcycles-anything with a motor. He wanted to test their limits, and after that, he wanted to make those things better. It was incredible to watch. He was my best friend.

Austin was such a light on this earth; the world needs more men like him. His behavior and life should be emulated by those who knew him. We invite you to join us for a public Celebration of Life on February 22, 2026. Further details will be posted within the week on a Facebook event. If you plan to attend, we ask that you please RSVP there. Let us remember Austin and celebrate his incredible life with food, re, and fellowship-just as he would want.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.ripostafh.com