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Gary Lee Austin

12/1/1958 - 2/10/2025

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Obituary For Gary Lee Austin

Gary Lee Austin, a beloved husband, father, and friend to many, passed away on February 10, 2025, at the age of 66 in Virginia Beach, VA. Born on December 1, 1958, in Savannah, Georgia, to the late Olive and Decator Austin, Gary’s life was defined by his unwavering love for family, his deep-rooted sense of community, and his ability to bring people together.

Gary is survived by his devoted wife of 39 years, Susan Austin, and his three sons, Wesley Austin (Celeste), Reed Austin, and Parker Austin. He also leaves behind his siblings, Decator Austin Jr. (Carol), Carolyn Culpepper (Herbert), Michael Austin (Bonnie), and Karen Hayes (David), along with several nieces and nephews. Family was the cornerstone of Gary’s life, and he made it his mission to pass down the traditions, values, and love that shaped his own upbringing.

Affectionately known as the “Mayor of Kempsville,” Gary had a way of making everyone feel welcome. Whether he was hosting a gathering, lending a hand, or just catching up with an old friend, he had a gift for bringing people together. A graduate of Kempsville High School’s class of 1977, he maintained lifelong friendships, a testament to his kindness, loyalty, and the joy he brought to others. Gary had a love for Kempsville baseball, a passion he joyfully shared with his sons, who proudly carried on the tradition.

Gary built a career at FedEx, where he worked for 30 years. Even after retiring, his commitment to service continued as he spent the last 10 years working in the Virginia Beach public school system, where he positively impacted countless students and colleagues. His passion for mentorship and helping others succeed was evident in every stage of his life, whether through work, coaching baseball, volunteering, or simply encouraging those around him to reach their full potential.

One of Gary’s greatest pastimes was being out on the water. He loved nothing more than taking family and friends out on his boat and embracing the coastal beauty of Virginia Beach. Gary found joy in time spent on his boat, in community service, and in the simple moments of life surrounded by family and friends. If you were looking for Gary on a Friday evening, you knew where to find him—AJ Gator’s. It was more than just a local spot to him; it was where he caught up with friends, checked in on everyone, and made sure no one ever felt like a stranger. He loved making people feel seen, valued, and part of something bigger.

Gary's legacy is one of love, laughter, and connection and his impact will be felt for many generations to come. His family finds comfort in the countless memories, stories, and traditions that will continue to live on in those who were fortunate enough to know him. Though he has set sail on new waters, his spirit will always remain anchored in the hearts of those who loved him.

A celebration of Gary’s life will be held on March 29, 2025, at 2 PM at the Culpepper Barn in Virginia Beach, VA.

Simply Cremation is assisting Gary's family. Please share memories and express condolences to his family at SimplyCremationOnline.com.

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  • 03/22/2025

    Juliann Doyle

    We will miss Mr. Austin so much! He was both of my daughter's pe teacher. Always took out the time to talk to me whenever I visited the school and asked about my oldest daughter. He spoke about his wife and kids often. Condolences to his family and friends.

  • 03/19/2025

    Amber Crunk

  • 02/26/2025

    Patrick O’toole

    Gary you left us way too soon 🥲you left a big hole in our hearts with your friendship and laughter and I saw you every couple days and I miss you and so does your family and friends 😔love you Patrick O'toole❤️

  • 02/25/2025

    Pam Sewell

    Susie, hugs and prayers to you and your family and we're so sorry to hear about Gary's passing - Mike & Pam Sewell

  • 02/23/2025

    Donald w Greene

    I knew Gary His Dad ,Mom, Karen. I worked on his car. I was his mechanic—Don Greene's GARAGE. So sorry to see his passing.

  • 02/22/2025

    Carol Starr Lentz

    Susie and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Such a moving testimony to Gary's love for family and life. Please accept my sincere apologies. Carol Lentz

  • 02/22/2025

    Rich Kohn

    Gary was a very good friend of mine; he'll be greatly missed by all of us who knew him. We met in 8th grade on the baseball team, with his special and outgoing personality, it wasn't long until he made you realize he would be a lifelong friend. Although I ended up going to Bayside HS in the 10th grade, he would go to the Bayside parties w/me, and I to the Kempsville parties with him, not to mention all the wild and fun times and things we did during high school. In addition, he was also there to help me out in the adult world a few times after college. My heart and thoughts go out to his wife Susie and boys Wesley, Reed and Parker, as well as the rest of his family. Rich Kohn

  • 02/19/2025

    Richard and Julie Byrd

    Gary, a friend from way back but always great to run into and catch up. Worked with Gary before the FedEx years. (Construction years.) Many great stories. You will be missed. Richard and Julie Byrd

  • 02/19/2025

    Janet Carter

    To Gary's Family, we're so terribly sorry to hear of Gary's sudden passing. We'll never forget him at KRA and KPB over the years. He always wore shorts regardless of the weather and was the nicest guy. Our prayers are with you as you grieve. Sincerely, Mark and Janet Carter Marietta and Brandon Carter

  • 02/19/2025

    JoAnn Nolan Barnes

    I'm so sorry to hear this. My condolences to his family.

  • 02/19/2025

    Mike Sage

    I am shocked and saddened to hear of Gary's passing. Having not been on FB, it took Kempsville word of mouth to learn of this as well as the many outings and goings on in our long time tight knit family and community. No one did a better job of fostering these connections than Gary. I was honored and humbled to find out that Gary had nominated me for the Kempsville Sports Hall of Fame some years ago. Not only was Gary a big fan of Kempsville baseball but he also wanted to make sure the glory years of the 70's were recognized. I'll be forever grateful for the gesture from my friend. My sincere condolences to the entire Austin family. The man and his smile will be missed. Mike Sage

  • 02/19/2025

    Portia Green

    I will miss seeing Mr. Austin every morning during school as I drove my daughter school as he directed traffic. He was very nice and always smiling. I had the pleasure of chatting with him periodically when I visited the school. May you rest in peace. To the Austin family you have my sincere condolences.

  • 02/19/2025

    Jackie Parris-Waters

    Gary was a friend to so many. To me he was by my side through all jr high and high school. We shared so many firsts and laughs and even tears together. He was so happy when he met his wife and then the boys just completed his life's goals. Always a smile for anyone who needed it. My heart aches for all of us who knew and loved him for most of our lives. My dad affectionately called him my "hairy legged beatnik friend". Because of that full head of hair he sported and my dad could get him going. My mom baked him brownies every weekend because he once told her they were the best. He was truly welcomed in our home back in the day. I'll miss you Gary. I'm glad you got the life you wanted and deserved!! It was just too short. RIP MY DEAR FRIEND. Jackie Parris-Waters

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