Norman R. "Russ" Austin Jr.

Norman R "Russ" Austin Jr, fondly known as "Pop-Pop", was called to his heavenly home on November 11, 2025, at age 96. A devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Russ lived a life filled with love, laughter and service.

Born November 7, 1929, in Brownsville Pennsylvania, Russ was the only child of Norman R. Austin, Sr. and Mary Ellen Austin. After graduating high school, he began a distinguished 20-year career serving his country in the United States Air Force, followed by 22 years of civil service at Tyndall Air Force Base as restaurant manager of the NCO Club. During his career, he received multiple honors and recognition from base commanders for his exceptional dedication and leadership.

On October 31, 1952, Russ married the love of his life Edith V. Austin, beginning a 73-year journey of devotion, laughter and unwavering companionship. Together they raised four children: Russell "Terry" Austin, Rick Austin, Lisa Robinson (Bill) and Barbara Cox. He was also blessed with five grandchildren: Crystal Dillingham, Caitlin Cox, Rusty Smith (Casey Anne), Emily Parker and Christian Austin, and eight great grandchildren: Carson Dorsey, Colton Dorsey, Grace Dorsey, Ashlynn Parker, Raelynn Parker, Cali Smith, Cole Smith and Emersyn Smith, each a source of boundless joy.

A man of faith, Russ was a long-standing member of the Parker Global Methodist Church where he sang in the church choir. He also lent his voice to the Mixed Company barber shop quartet and served as a member of the Masons. Known for his kind spirit, gentle humor and occasional wise crack, Russ brought laughter and warmth wherever he went. He enjoyed golf, cheering on his grandsons at baseball games and trips to Biloxi with family and friends.

Visitation will be held at Kent Forest Lawn on Thursday November 20th from 4-6 p.m. The funeral service will take place at Parker Global Methodist Church on Friday November 21st at 2 p.m., followed by interment at Evergreen Memorial Gardens. Kent-Forest Lawn Funeral Home is entrusted with directing the service.

Honoring Russ as pallbearers will be Carson Dorsey, Colton Dorsey, Rusty Smith, Jeff McCoy, Logan McCoy and Shane Davison. Honorary pallbearer Christian Austin.

Russ was dearly loved by so many. Though an only child, he built a large, loving family and cherished every one of them. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend, Russ will be profoundly missed but forever remembered for his kindness, humor and unwavering love.