Samuel Lee Mays Austion

01/27/1935 - 04/08/2024

Obituary For Samuel Lee Mays Austion

Samuel Mays Austion was born on Monday, January 27, 1935, to Samuel Mays and Ollie Allen Austin in Jacksonville, FL. “Sam” became a lifelong resident of Palatka. On June 21, 1975, Sam was joined in holy matrimony with Betty Lou Perkins.

Affectionately known as “One Man Band”, he was an amazing father, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. He was blessed to have lived 89 wonderful years. Sam loved spending time and his knowledge of music with his grandchildren by demonstrating his gifted musical talent of making musical sounds with household spoons; which added a unique flavor to his singing capabilities. His hobbies also included playing drums. Sam was of Baptist faith.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in eternal rest by his beloved wife: Betty Lou Mays; son: Samuel L. Mays; daughters: Lovella Drayton and Erica Gowdy; brothers: Rudolph Austin, Jr. and John Wayne Austin; and sisters: Audrey May Clayton, Josephine Austin, Ernestine Williams and Esther Gilyard.

Sam’s departure on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, leaves a void in many hearts that cannot be filled, and those who had the privilege of knowing him mourn the loss of a truly remarkable individual. “One Man Band” will be remembered by his family, friends and those who may not have known his name but was impacted in some way. His memories will forever be cherished by his sons: Michael Mays of Palatka, FL and Jeffrey Perkins (LaShay) of Lakeland, FL; daughters: Lorrine Session (Alix), Carol Hollings, and Latoya Roberson all of Palatka, FL; goddaughter: Shalando Willis of Palatka, FL; brother: Charlie Mays of California; sisters: Barbara Bailey and Ethel Mae Bailey both of Jacksonville, FL; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and loving friends.

Visitation Friday, April 19, 6-7 p.m., at Greater Shilo Missionary Baptist Chruch, 1000 N. 19th St, Palatka. A Celebration of Life will be held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, April 20, @ Shilo. Interment will be held in Oak Hill West.

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