Nellie D. Austin

Ms. Nellie Delorie Austin passed Wednesday, August 21, 2024. A Public Viewing will be held on Wednesday, August 28, 2024 at Donehoo-Lewis Funeral Home 736 South Central Avenue Hapeville from 12 PM to 5 PM. Her final rites will be provided Cannon Funeral Home in Lakeland, FL.  Please keep the family in prayer.

Nellie Delorie (Lois) Austin was born on April 15, 1964, in Bartow, Florida, the beloved first child of her mother, Eloise Harris, who survived her, and her father, Sylvester Austin Sr., who preceded her in death. Nellie was called home to be with the Lord on August 21, 2024, surrounded by her daughters and loved ones.

From an early age, Nellie accepted Christ into her heart. She was a devoted member of Providence Baptist Church under Pastor Charles E. Nesbitt, Jr.'s leadership for over 15 years. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she lived every day with a spirit of kindness, compassion, and love that touched all who knew her.

Nellie was educated in the Polk County Public School District, attending John Cox Elementary School and graduating from Lake Gibson High School. She had a strong work ethic. Nellie dedicated her life to helping people. She demonstrated her caring heart through her long career with Avis and GiGi's Playhouse in Atlanta, Georgia. She spent 34 years with her cherished partner, Esker Erric Smith, whom she married in 2008. Esker remained faithfully by her side through every joy and challenge, including her final moments. Their union was a testament to the power of love and companionship.

Nellie was a devoted sister and caregiver, especially to her brother, Sylvester Austin Jr., of Hampton, Georgia, whom she often called her best friend. Her love and care for her family were unparalleled, extending to her brothers, Andrew Boone (Melisa) of Tampa, Florida, Richard Boone of Lakeland, Florida, and her sisters, Kim Austin and Tiffany Austin, both of Miami, Florida.

Nellie was preceded in death by her aunt, Lillie Mae Harris, her aunt, Mary Elizabeth Harris, and her cousin, Hardin Alexander Cooper. She leaves a legacy of love and devotion that will continue to inspire all who know her.

Nellie is survived by her loving daughters Latoya Brown (Kasi) of Fairburn, Georgia, Kiara Lewis of Hampton, Georgia, and Erica Smith of Hampton, Georgia; stepdaughter Norshawndra Smith-Wright of Winter Haven, Florida; and five cherished grandchildren: Alexis Austin, Kassidy Lewis, Kayden Lewis, Khyree Brown, and Micah Wright. She was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, London Austin and Landon Ford. Many nieces, nephews, godchildren, and beloved relatives and friends enriched Nellie's life.

Nellie will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched with her kindness, her unwavering faith, and her boundless love. Nellie's last words were, "Are y'all ready?" This is a true testament to her love for her devoted daughters, Latoya, Kiara, and Erica, who will carry her in their hearts forever.

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