Audrey Austin

1931 - 2025

Dr. Audrey Neloweta Austin, born Nov. 5, 1931, in Repton, AL, to Alton B. Austin and Maggie Pryor-Austin, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2025. A dedicated educator and advocate, Dr. Austin earned degrees from Penn State, Case Western Reserve, and George Washington University, breaking barriers as the only Black member of her debate team. She was the founding member who established the Penn State Chapter of the Gamma Epsilon Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, later achieving the prestigious Pearl Member status, reserved for members with 65 years of dedicated service. She began her teaching career in Cleveland Public Schools and later worked as a social worker before becoming an instructional resource and program developer for DC Public Schools, making significant contributions to special education. She also served as vice president of the Washington Teachers' Union for Special Education and worked with the Democratic National Committee and Special Education Commission board under two mayors. Dr. Austin was a devoted sister, aunt, and mentor, cherished for her integrity, humor, and dedication to education and service. She is survived by her sister, Gloria Lovelace-Baldwin; her nephew, Jeffery Lovelace; and extended family. She was also blessed with the unwavering love, support, and care of the Hill family Troy, Lisa, Troy II, Brittany, Tyson, Leah, and Tayah and her buddy Boss, the family dog, who surrounded her with warmth and kindness throughout the years. A private viewing was held at RJ SLATER IV FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, New Kensington, PA. Dr. Austin's legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the knowledge she shared, and the love she gave so freely.