Obituary: Billie Ruth Austin

Billie Ruth Austin, 94, a lifelong resident of Winter Garden, passed away at home in the care of her children on Saturday, June 24, 2017.

Mrs. Austin, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W.N. Denmark, was a lovely lady of boundless energy who cherished her Lord, her family, her church and the activities and interests that enriched her life.

A decades-long member at Beulah Baptist Church, she taught Sunday School and was deeply involved in the church’s WMU.

An avid gardener, she surrounded her Dillard Street home with beautiful gardens and was a long-time member of the local Bloom & Grow Garden Society.

Billie Ruth had a long and happy marriage to the late Lester Austin Jr., to whom she was married for more than 50 years until his death. They were both adventurous travelers and made frequent trips around the United States, Europe, Canada and Africa, bringing home wonderful memories and experiences.

Mrs. Austin leaves behind three married children and their spouses: Lester Austin III and his wife, Nannette; Beverly Hatley and her husband, John; and Billie Clyatt and her husband, Dudley. She is also survived by eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Harold and Charles Denmark.

With her, also, was Lillian Thomas, a three-year, full-time caregiver to Mrs. Austin who developed a deep relationship with both Billie Ruth and the entire Austin family. Her services were invaluable, and without her it’s hard to imagine how difficult the last few years would have been.

Billie Ruth Austin was a remarkable woman who will be dearly missed by her community, her church and, of course, her many friends and loving family.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, June 29, from 10 to 11 a.m. with funeral service to follow at 11 a.m. at Beulah Baptist Church, Winter Garden. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Beulah Baptist Church Building Fund. Arrangements entrusted to Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Home, Winter Garden. www.baldwinfairchild.com.