Melvin Jerome Austin, Sr.

Obituary For Melvin Jerome Austin, Sr.

Obituary for Melvin Jerome Austin Sr.

Melvin Jerome Austin Sr., affectionately known as “Ronnie” to longtime friends and dear relatives, suddenly departed this life on June 30, 2025, at the age of 72. He was born on May 13, 1953, in Folkston, Georgia, to Anita Austin and Noble Dasher, who preceded him in death.

Following the early loss of his mother, Melvin was lovingly raised by his devoted grandmother, Minnie Austin, who also preceded him in death. Under her care, he developed a deep and abiding faith in the Lord. That faith became the foundation of his life and shaped him into a faithful servant of God.

Melvin received his early education in the Charleston County School System and went on to serve his country proudly in the United States Army for two years.

In 1976, Melvin married the love of his life, Georgia Austin. From the moment they met, they were inseparable. That same year, they settled in Quitman, Georgia, where they built a life centered on love, faith, and family. Their 49-year union was blessed with five children: Melvin J. Austin Jr. (Courtney) of Yulee, Florida; Tamara N. Moore of Moultrie, Georgia; Sherika A. Austin of Valdosta, Georgia; Brad T. Austin (Keshia) of Valdosta, Georgia; and Brittany M. Simmons (Devin) of Valdosta, Georgia. Melvin was a devoted father and grandfather who found joy in being a constant source of strength to his children and 17 grandchildren. He was a shining example of being a man of faith, integrity, and love. His legacy of character, integrity, and devotion will continue to guide his family and inspire them to live with the same strength, faith, and love that he exemplified.

A man deeply rooted in his faith, Melvin was a lifelong and dedicated member of The Church of God in Unity. He served faithfully at Zion Temple Church of God in Unity for many years. Over the years, he held several leadership roles, including Chairman Deacon, Treasurer, and Sunday School Teacher for the youth. He served the Lord and his church family with humility, love, and a servant’s heart.

Melvin was also a hardworking and respected professional who gave 36 years of service to the Brooks County Road Department. He retired as Foreman and was known for his integrity, strong work ethic, and dependable leadership.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of 49 years Georgia Austin; his five children and 17 grandchildren; his sister Roxanne Hamilton of Kingsland Georgia; sisters LaTitia Harvey and Lawanna Gibbs of Folkston Georgia; brothers Charles Doles (Kendra) and Jermaine Doles of Folkston Georgia; and his uncle Warren Austin of Folkston Georgia.

He is also survived by his brothers-in-law Sammie Lee Jones and Lee Andrew Jones (Debra) of Folkston Georgia; and his sisters-in-law Sandra Jones (Chris), Elizabeth Mincey (Edward), Lisa Baker (Terry), Annie Mae Abdullah, Eliza Mae Overstreet (Solomon) all of Folkston Georgia, Teresa Nicole Carroll of Fayetteville North Carolina, and Monica D. Jones (Tony) of Jacksonville Florida.

Melvin Jerome Austin Sr. lived a life filled with faith, love, and purpose. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched, and all who knew and loved him will forever cherish his memory. One of his favorite songs was “Heavenly Choir” by the Canton Spirituals, a reflection of the eternal joy he looked forward to and the heavenly reward he so faithfully lived for.

A celebration of life will be Saturday, July 5, 2025 at 3:30PM at Zion Temple Church with Dr. Warnell Parker, officiating. Burial will follow in Hillcrest Memorial Gardens. Visit this website or our Stevens-McGhee Funeral Home website to view a livestream of the celebration.

Continue to keep the Austin family in your prayers.