Emmett “Sonny” N. Austin, Jr, 79, of Huntsville, Alabama passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 11, 2018. Born in Medina, Tennessee he lived most of his life in Huntsville.
Sonny was a love-struck and devoted husband of 59 years to his high school sweetheart, Peggy Austin and a committed and loving father to his only son Jay Austin (Lena). He enjoyed being a generous and dependable big brother to his sister, Wanda King (Glenn) and he delighted in his three granddaughters Maddie, Jessie, and Hannah Kathryn Austin. He is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Sonny enjoyed outdoor activities and had a passion for old cars, street rods, motorcycles, traveling with his wife, beach trips, baseball, Tennessee and Auburn Football games, golf, and being a thoughtful neighbor. He was a dedicated member of Hillwood Baptist Church.
After serving in the Army, he was employed on Redstone Arsenal for many years which included work at MICOM/AMC, on the Patriot Missile system, and also on the CH-47 Chinook Helicopter. He received many awards for leadership in his career and selflessly praised his co-workers as the reason his accomplishments were noticed. He enjoyed his career, making many close friends and being able to travel to Red Sox country, El Paso, and New Mexico often bringing his family along with him. After retiring, he missed the generous friends and cohorts he had made during those years.
Sonny’s Celebration of his Life was held on Saturday, January 13, 2018 at Laughlin Service Funeral Home. Services were performed by Pastor Charles Freeman, Hillwood Baptist Church. Memorial donations may be made to the Memory Care Facility at Thrive at Jones Farm in Huntsville, Alabama.
