Jimmy Austin, Sr.

Jimmy T. Austin Sr., of Cross Plains, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at home on May 25, 2023, at the age of 84.

Born December 20, 1938, to George Edward Austin and Cassie Williams Austin, Jimmy was one of 11 siblings. He met his beloved wife of 64 years, Peggy, at a church revival in 1958 and instantly fell in love.

Jimmy was an accomplished 5th generation carpenter who proudly passed his love of the skill down to his son, JT. The two owned Custom Remodelers for 22 years and their work was known around the mid-state.

In addition to his love for woodwork, Jimmy enjoyed spending time with his family, vacationing on the beach or on cruises, fishing, and hosting large family cookouts. In his younger days, he loved to race cars and go-karts - once holding a Florida track speed record of 143 mph. Jimmy was known by his family and friends for being kind, loving, funny, and caring.

Jimmy's legacy continues through his son JT and two granddaughters, Lindsey and Amanda,  along with great-grandchildren who will always remember him fondly as a doting grandparent who never let age slow him down.

There will be a visitation from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Tuesday, May 30th, and a Celebration of Life service at 1:00 PM. Burial will follow in Cross Plains Cemetery with Wil Richardson, Ryan Russell, Thomas Russell, Jason Taylor, Kevin Austin, and Keith Austin serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Charlotte Russell, Rachel Kate Richardson, Caroline Russell, and Willa Claire Richardson.

Jimmy's hobbies were simple, but his life was full. He found joy in making his family feel special in every way possible. His proudest accomplishments included building a happy family of his own and showering love on his granddaughters. Jimmy is survived by his wife Peggy, son, JT (Carol) Austin Jr, grandchildren, Lindsey (Wil) Richardson and Amanda (Ryan) Russell; great-grandchildren, Thomas Russell, Charlotte Russell, Rachel Kate Richardson, Caroline Russell, and Willa Claire Richardson and brothers Larry Wayne (Linda) Austin and Donnie Dean Austin. He is preceded in death by his parents, 6 brothers, and 2 sisters.

Jimmy’s commitment to hard work and dedication to his family is a legacy that will continue even after he's gone. He will be missed dearly by all who knew him, but the memories he leaves behind will remain treasured forever.