Keith James Austin

Keith James Austin, loving father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, died on October 15, 2025 at the age of 94. If asked about his life, even in his last days, Keith would be the first to tell you that he couldn't complain. For Keith, being surrounded by family and friends, playing games, and maybe tasting a good drink, was "heaven." For him, life was always good and he was known for bringing light and laughter to any room. Keith will be missed.
Keith was born on May 6, 1931 in Port Maria, Jamaica, to Sylvia Tennant and Egbert Austin. He was the eldest of two, older brother to Orbyn Emmanuel, "Manny" (predeceased). From a young age Keith was a leader in the community. An accomplished baritone and pianist, Keith sang in the choir for Kingston Parish Church. He was also an active member of the Boy Scouts, eventually serving as Troop Leader. Keith was selected to represent his troop and attended the 9th World Scout Jubilee Jamboree in Warwickshire, England in 1957.
In 1954, he married Sybil Young (predeceased) and together they had six children: Hugh (Marlene), Diana "Rosie" (Daniel), Orbyn (predeceased), Dahlia (Robert "Bob"), Zennette (predeceased, Mark), and Dave. Keith was a great provider, not only for his own children, but also to his extended family; his niece Audrey and his adopted siblings Grace-Ann and Audley. During the 1950's to 1970's Keith honed his communication skills in a sales career working for Eli Lilly & Company and Mordecai & Company. Keith was always extending kindness to others in need-no portion was ever too small to share.
In the 1980s, Keith immigrated to the United States. He was employed with Merrill Lynch and later with Edison Parking, where he remained until he retired. Instead of being career-driven, Keith focused on the people in his life-family and friends came first. Keith was always known as a kind-hearted man, who cared deeply for his family.
In 1992, Keith married Ida Blagrove (predeceased). Together they had four children: Maurine, Michael (Alecia), Mark, and Marion (Paul). Keith never stopped giving his care and attention to his children. He made sure all of his children were treated equally and education was a top priority for him. Ever the doting father, Keith was someone you could talk to about anything. He could "shoot the breeze" for hours over a game of dominoes, checkers or cards-and he was never too old to school you in a game. Keith was always ready with a quick quip to make you smile or laugh and loved being surrounded by his family. He was thankful for the life he had and all the people in it. He was also extremely grateful for all the loved ones who cared for him: his daughter and son-in-law Dahlia and Bob, whom he lived with for many years; his son, Dave, who was his daily caregiver during the last four years of his life; and his grandchildren Brian and Caitlin who provided constant care, comfort and support in the final stages.
But whether son, daughter, niece, nephew, grandchild, or in-law, Keith was always proud of his family. And indeed, his legacy is a very impressive list: a great-nephew (Shawn); eighteen grandchildren (Wendy, Monique [predeceased], Kareena, Erik, Brian, Danielle, Kelsie, Zandria, Caitlin, Robert, Mark Thomas Jr, Raquel, D'Geneil, Dwayne, Yanique, Mark Austin Jr, Paul, and Pablo); four great-grandchildren (D'Angelo, Brianna, Dauvinee, Jared); and four great-great-grandchildren. Keith left a lasting mark on this world and his spirit will live on in the precious memories he built with his loved ones and friends.
Visiting will be held on Sunday, October 19 from 1-3 pm at Joseph J. Smith Funeral Home, with a Prayer Service at 2:30 pm to include family remembrances. Private cremation services will follow.