MSGT James H. Austin's Obituary
James (Jim) Hillard Austin, 82, passed away peacefully at Tacoma General Hospital in Tacoma, WA, after an extended illness. He was born in Philadelphia, PA. and attended West Philadelphia High School where he was valedictorian of his class.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Mitchell and Mamie Austin. He retired from the US Air Force in 1972 after 22 years of service. Following his military service, Jim made his home in Tacoma, WA working as an air traffic controller for 10 years and retiring after 22 years spent working at the Washington State Liquor Control Board.
Jim is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Justine, and children: Marcia Lynne Azizi (Akil), Lakewood, WA, Sheryl Lindsay, Tacoma, WA, 2 sisters Carlene Gordon and Beverly Staley (Vincent) of Philadelphia, PA, one brother, George Austin (Jean) of Philadelphia, PA, 2 granddaughters Malantha Tinsley, Smyrna, GA, and Mahalia Burns, Tacoma, WA, 2 great grandchildren, Adriana Clanton and Malachai Brown, one sister-in-law Verona Adkins, New Orleans, LA, special sister, Janie, along with many nieces, nephews, and very close friends.
The family would like to thank the staff of Heartwood Extended Care Center, Tacoma General Hospital and St. Joseph Hospital for their loving care and support of Jim and his family during his illness.
Graveside services will be held on April 11, 2015, 11:00 A.M. at Mountain View Funeral Home with a reception following at St. John Baptist Church, 12 Noon located at 2001 South J Street, Tacoma, 98405.
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