Elizabeth Diana Austin

Elizabeth Diana Austin embarked on her eternal journey on April 7, 2025, in Atlanta, GA. Born on March 22, 1956, in Belleville, IL, Elizabeth grew up to be a beacon of love and kindness, touching the lives of all who knew her.

Elizabeth was the cherished daughter of the late Rachel Lee McGriff Kemp and of the late William Newton Kemp Sr., and her warm spirit was nurtured in a loving family alongside her sister, Linda Kemp Starks (Willie Earl) and her brother, William Newton Kemp Jr. (Gertrude). Her life was further blessed when she met and married her soulmate, Carlton Austin. Their union of 41 years was filled with joy, laughter, and the gift of three wonderful children: Christopher Austin (Ama Powell), Kimberly Austin (David Saffold) and Andrea Austin. Elizabeth's love and legacy continued to flourish with the arrival of her beloved grandchildren, Amahris, Aeris, and Ara Austin. She also leaves behind her nieces and nephew, Nikkia Starks Jones (Tony), Allyse Starks Daniels (Stephfon), and Matthew Kemp; and a host of great nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and her best friend/sister in Christ, Janice Butts.

A product of her hometown's educational institutions, Elizabeth was a proud graduate of Dothan High School in 1974. She furthered her education at Wallace Community College and Alabama State University, where she honed the skills and knowledge that would inform her professional and personal life.

Elizabeth dedicated many years of her life to the students at Beverlye Middle School as an ISS Teacher and as an assistant reading teacher at Lake City High School in Lake City, South Carolina. Her involvement extended beyond the classroom as she actively participated in band competitions, served as both Vice President and President of the PTA, and was instrumental in starting the James H Daniels Scholarship, which provided a generous donation to the Houston County Library. Elizabeth's commitment to the community shone through her work as she has touched the lives of thousands of students throughout the years.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her existence. Elizabeth worshipped at Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church for many years, where she served as a deaconess, teaching arts and crafts at Vacation Bible School, and exemplifying a special connection with God that inspired all around her.

Elizabeth's interests were a reflection of her generous spirit. She loved to help others discreetly, always ready with great advice and a calm demeanor. She had a special knack for taking care of children and the elderly, and her home was often filled with the aromas of her cooking, the precision of her sewing, and the sweetness of her baked cakes. Elizabeth's sense of humor, love for games, and watching westerns with her son, David, brought joy and laughter to family gatherings. Her investigative skills often made her the family's private detective, as she helped her husband find his biological parents.

Those who had the privilege of knowing Elizabeth will remember her as the epitome of a loving, kind, and passionate soul. Her giving heart was evident in every aspect of her life, from her dedication to her family, to her service to the community.

As the sun sets on Elizabeth's earthly chapter, her memory will continue to shine brightly in the lives of those she touched. Her presence will be deeply missed but her spirit will live on, a guiding light of love and kindness. Elizabeth Diana Austin's journey was one of compassion and joy, and her story will be told with fondness and admiration for generations to come.

A celebration of Elizabeth’s life will be held on Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at 11am at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Owens officiating. She will be laid to rest in Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery.