of Batesville, AR
April 22, 1963 - July 25, 2020
Robert E. Austin, 58, returned to his heavenly home on July 25, 2020 after battling Covid-19. His firm belief in God supported him during his struggle and ultimately gave him everlasting peace.
He was a good man, deeply devoted to his church, where singing was one of his greatest joys.
He was preceded in death by infant son, Christopher; his beloved mother, Barbara Cooper, and his grandparents, James and Ruth Harris.
He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Rest in Peace, Robert!
There will be a memorial graveside service held beginning at 2:00 pm Friday, August 7, 2020 at Pleasant Valley Cemetery in Cushman.
We are complying with the Arkansas Department of Health guidelines and social distancing will be observed. All attendees must provide and wear their own masks.
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13 Condolence(s)
Diane Ellis
Wednesday, June 8, 2022
I recently ran across a post of Rob's obituary I had saved when his physical presence left this earth. Coming up on the second anniversary of his death, it is still painful to know Rob was among the many tragedies of Covid. He was a genuine person who looked on the bright side of things and made things happen in his life that were his dreams--completing a degree from Lyon and as a bonus, getting a Masters degree! I can still see him marching around the perimeter of Couch Garden at Lyon when his graduate degree was complete. I'm so glad he was able to be in a job and career he loved. He cared deeply for students and animals, enjoyed singing and showing his love for all of creation. Rob, you are still deeply missed.
Wally Varner
Saturday, November 28, 2020
Brother Rob was a great friend and church member of Peaceful Harbor Church in Batesville. It was my honor to be his friend and pastor for many years. Although he is deeply missed here, I’m sure he is singing in the Heavenly choir and getting to spend eternity with Jesus and his son, Christopher.
Camille Beary
Wednesday, August 5, 2020
Rob was a student worker for us at the library while at Lyon, and then we hired him after he graduated! He went on to get his Master's, a dream he had long pursued. He was my colleague for several years. His talents were a flare for detail and a compassion for those going thru rough times. Rest in Peace.
The strife is o'er, the battle done;
the victory of life is won;
the song of triumph has begun.
Lord, by the stripes which wounded thee,
from death's dread sting thy servants free,
that we may live and sing to thee.
Joan Davidson
Tuesday, August 4, 2020
My deepest condolences to Robert's family and friends. His Lyon family will deeply miss him. Prayers for the repose of his soul.
Markeita Williams
Tuesday, August 4, 2020
Rob Austin was a dedicated member of Lyon College Gospel Choir! His cheerful attitude and eagerness to learn always made singing with him so joyful! He will truly be missed in the gospel choir. He was one of the nicest and most humble people I have met. I pray for his family that God gives them peace in this time of sorrow. Truly, we have all lost a jewel!
Monica Rodriguez
Monday, August 3, 2020
I enjoyed having Rob as my student in my Spanish class . Later on, I was happy that he became a member of the Lyon community working in the library. He was an animal lover, and a supporter of Humane Society of Independency County. Hope his cat found a new home. Rob was a kind soul, always respectful and helpful in any way he could. May Rob rest in peace now.
Bruce Johnston
Monday, August 3, 2020
Rob was a wonderful guy and faithful member of the Lyon College community. A glowing smile and kind words for others were hallmarks of this gentleman. May Rob Rest In Peace as our memories of him live on!!
Tracy Stewart Lange
Monday, August 3, 2020
I want to send my deepest sympathy to his family. He was loved and will be missed by his Lyon family.
Paul Bube
Monday, August 3, 2020
I had the privilege of working with Rob as one of his professors when he was a student at Lyon College, and later as a colleague when he came back to Lyon after earning is masters degree in library science. He was one of the most positive and genuine people I have known. He loved people and he loved Jesus sincerely and cheerfully. This is a profoundly sad loss.
VanessaAdams
Monday, August 3, 2020
I am so sorry to learn of Robert's passing. He was a kind, generous person and will be missed.
Minor and Jenny Wilson
Sunday, August 2, 2020
To the family and friends, we want to thank Brother Rob for his love of ministry through song and serving.
Karen Weaver
Friday, July 31, 2020
I was so shocked and sorry to hear of Roberts’s passing. He was a wonderful volunteer at Eagle Mountain Assisted Living & loved brightening the day for our seniors. He was always so pleasant and kind and such a gentle man. My sympathies to his family & friends.
Laura Sandy
Friday, July 31, 2020
Robert was so very nice. Always smiling. He will be missed.