John "Big John" Steven Austin
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John's obituary
John Steven “Big John” Austin
John Steven “Big John” Austin, age 51, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on a business flight to Orlando on Friday, March 6, 2026. He has left a mighty wake and holes in our hearts.
Born in Durham, North Carolina, John grew up in Asheville and Shelby, places he always considered home. In later years he had a home in Kingsport, Tennessee, and stayed more in Lenoir, North Carolina—where his mother resides—though in truth John was rarely in one place for long.
John earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Appalachian State University and went on to work as a chemist for much of his professional career. After a pivot during COVID, he embraced a new chapter of life, earning his commercial driver’s license and heading out on the open road as a long-haul truck driver. The road suited him well. Traveling the country with his beloved beagle, Bjork, John collected adventure after adventure and stories to match.
John loved life and lived it out loud, always staying true to his authentic self. Whether mountain biking, canoeing, camping, or traveling wherever curiosity led him, he approached the world with enthusiasm and wonder. He had a deep love for music—especially folk rock and the Grateful Dead—and treasured time with the many friends and family members who meant so much to him.
A brilliant and endlessly curious mind, John was known as a lively debater and occasional button-pusher who never shied away from a spirited conversation. Funny, charming, and mischievous, he brought energy and laughter wherever he went. Friends and family could often expect to hear John announce his arrival with his signature donkey-like croon—“Eeeawww!”—whether joining a phone call or coming around back to join the party. John died a happy man, having recently rediscovered a deep connection and love with his sweetheart from years ago, Allison Roof Verling. Their reunion brought him great joy.
He was preceded in death by his father, Rev. Steven D. Austin, along with many beloved grandparents, aunts, and uncles. Surviving John are his mother, Reba Earley Austin of Lenoir, North Carolina, and his sister and sister-in-love, Jennifer and Carol Austin-Janssen of Hendersonville, North Carolina.
John would not want a sad funeral service, but rather a gathering to celebrate the way he loved and lived—out loud and outdoors. Friends are hosting a celebration Friday outside Shelby. A family gathering will be planned and announced at a later date.
In the meantime, those who knew him might honor his memory by putting on a little Grateful Dead, stepping outside, listening to the birds, and dreaming awhile with the clouds.
“Listen to the river sing sweet songs to rock my soul.”
— “Brokedown Palace,” Grateful Dead
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