William Bryson Austin Jr.

William Bryson Austin, Jr., better known as Straw, was a man who could light up a room with his laughter and wit, and he did so until his last day on October 4, 2023. Born in Piedmont, SC on July 18, 1951, Straw was a man of many talents, a jack-of-all-trades, and a master of none. Duct tape could fix anything.
He was a devoted son to his late parents William Bryson Austin, Sr. and Hazel Austin Bridges, and a loving brother to his late sister Elizabeth "Lib" Lindsey, and surviving sister Judi (Bill) Earwaker He was an amazing father to his late daughter Heather Austin Johnson and surviving daughter Shannon Austin Carroll. Both his girls thought he hung the moon.

Straw spent over 30 years at 3M, where his colleagues knew him not just for his hard work and dedication, but also for his practical jokes and infectious humor. Retirement gave him more time for his passions - antique collecting, dumpster diving, and being a professional bullshitter. He had a knack for finding treasure in the most unexpected places and could spin a yarn that would leave you in stitches.

A selfless man, Straw always put others before himself. He was a rock for his family, always ready to lend an ear or a helping hand. He was the beloved husband (49 years) of the late Debra "Dip" Campbell Austin and a doting father to his daughters. Mike "Big" Johnson was his favorite son-in-law and fit right in with the crazy family.
Straw was an extremely proud Papa to Zachary (Tonja) Nodine, who was like the son he never had and their bond was one of mutual love and respect. His granddaughters, Kenzi Morrow, Baylee Henley, and Reese Henley were his pride and joy and he took great joy in their accomplishments. He was also a great-grandfather to Camren Parham and Amelia Nodine, who will remember him for his playful spirit and craziness.

Straw was a man of many interests, but above all, he was a man of people. He could strike up a conversation with anyone and had a gift for making people feel special. His sense of humor was contagious, and he had a knack for turning ordinary moments into memorable ones. He was a prankster at heart, always ready with a joke or a funny story to lighten the mood. His laughter was infectious and will never be forgotten.

In his later years, Straw found companionship in his dog Fionna, following the loss of his beloved furbabies Bully and Brodixx. Fionna was more than a pet to Straw, she was his confidante and his partner in crime. They were inseparable, and their bond was a testament to Straw's caring and nurturing nature.

As we remember Straw, let's not forget his love for life, his selflessness, and his unique ability to bring laughter and joy to every situation. He was a funny and interesting man, who lived life on his own terms. He had the best sense of humor, and his spirit will continue to inspire all those who had the privilege of knowing him. William Bryson Austin, Jr., you were one of a kind, and you will be dearly missed.

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