of Plano, TX
January 11, 1945 - October 21, 2025
Gary Joe Austin, 80, of Plano, Texas, passed away peacefully at his home on October 21, 2025. He was born on January 11, 1945, in Nettleton, Arkansas, to Herman Elton Austin and Lewanda Lee Ellis.
Gary attended Nettleton High School then went on to further his education at both Arkansas State University and the University of Tennessee. His professional management career included time with EDS (now Hewlett Packard); from which Peerless Group was formed. Respected by colleagues and friends alike for his integrity and professionalism. His leadership and people skills were among his strengths. Gary had a myriad of talents including being a gifted woodcraftsman and painter.
On February 28, 1964, Gary married the love of his life, Willa Dean Darr, in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Together, they shared 61 incredibly adventurous years of marriage centered on love, faith, and family.
As a follower of Christ, Gary was a member of WillowCreek Fellowship Church, Gary walked in humility and faith daily which was the foundation of his life.
Gary is survived by his loving wife, Willa "Dean" Austin of Plano, Texas; his mother, Wanda Rose of McKinney, Texas; his daughter, DeAnna Brown and husband, Don of Sachse, Texas; his son, Jeff Austin and wife, Ashley of McKinney, Texas; and his grandchildren, Serina Nelson and husband, Ben of Fayetteville, North Carolina; Erin Bell and Brad of Rogers, Arkansas; Christie Griffin and husband, Glenn of Memphis, Tennessee; Joseph "Andy" Hayes and Rachel; Abby Buniva and husband, Matthew of Plano, Texas; Aidan Austin of Plano, Texas; Macy Warshawsky of McKinney, Texas; and Baxton Warshawsky of McKinney, Texas.
He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Jonathon Toomey, William Toomey, Bernice Toomey, Ayianna Griffin, and Gibson Griffin; his sister, Donna Kay Austin of McKinney, Texas; and nephews and nieces, Chris Weir and wife, Beth of Garland, Texas; Robbye Kirkpatrick and spouse, Shawn of Austin, Texas; Steve Rose and wife, Tracy of Conway, Arkansas; Dina Rose of Walnut Ridge, Arkansas; along with a host of other loving family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Herman Elton Austin; stepfather, Harold Rose; and stepbrother, Gary Rose.
A graveside service will take place Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Pine Log Cemetery Pavillion, Brookland, Arkansas 72417.
We will miss Gary dearly here on earth, yet we know this is not goodbye it is only "see you later," because through Jesus Christ, we will meet again.
In lieu of flowers please make donations in Gary's name to the Willow Creek Fellowship food pantry or The Gideons.
Graveside services are under the direction of Roller-Farmers Union Funeral Home.