PHOENIX, NY – James Patrick Austin, 71, of Birmingham, Ala., former Phoenix, NY, native, and Augusta Ga., resident, died on Wednesday April 8, 2015, at UAB Hospital of complications related to long-term illness.
He was born in in Syracuse, NY, in November of 1943 to his late parents, Eleanor M. (Morrow) and Harrison G. Austin.
Jim was a heavy equipment operator and mechanic for Pioneer Concrete Co., in Augusta, Ga.
He was a member of the IOUE Local 545, Syracuse, and former member of the Lions Club; a volunteer with the Phoenix Fire Department.
Jim enjoyed repairing old cars, hunting and fishing, and riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle.
His greatest joy was being a proud grandfather.
Jim’s parents predeceased him, both in 1980; he lost his loving wife of 34 years, Donna L. (Pickard) Austin, in 1999; his brothers William Austin in 1990, and Edward Austin in 2014.
He is survived by his daughter, Dr. Heather Austin McGinnis, her husband, Kazuhiko McGinnis; and granddaughter, Emi McGinnis all of Birmingham, Ala.; a brother, Charles Austin of Syracuse; a sister-in-law, Jan Austin of Clay; his aunt, Ruth Austin of Cicero; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Calling hours will be held on April 23 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Allanson-Glanville-Tappan Funeral Home, 431 Main St., Phoenix.
Services will be held on April 24 at 9:30 a.m. at Saint Stephen’s Church, 469 Main St., Phoenix, with the Rev. Philip Brockmyre officiating.
Burial will follow in Our Lady of Peace Catholic Cemetery, 8668 Oswego Road (County Route 57), Baldwinsville, NY 13027.
Reception to follow at the Elks Lodge.
Contributions in Jim’s memory may be made to: American Lung Association of CNY, 506 E. Washington St., Syracuse, NY 13202.
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