Marjorie Austin Obituary

Marjorie Ann Austin, 78, of Neosho, Missouri, departed this life into Glory on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at the St. Luke's Nursing Center in Carthage, Missouri. Born on July 8, 1947, in Gravette, Arkansas, to the late Wesley and Lois (Curtis) Kern-Still, Marjorie's life was a testament to the power of love and the strength of family. Marjorie's journey through life was one of devotion and service. She married the love of her life, Reverend Jack Henry Austin, on May 22, 1964, and together they embarked on a spiritual mission that would touch countless lives. Together, they pastored several churches in Arkansas, and then ministered to the Tlingit Tribe in Southeast Alaska at Kake Assembly of God, and finally pastored in Southwest Missouri at Exeter Assembly of God and Tracy Community Church. Marjorie's pride and joy was the beautiful family she and Jack built together. A proud member of the Pentecostal Faith, Marjorie's relationship with the Lord was the cornerstone of her existence. Her unwavering faith was evident in every aspect of her life, from her loving time spent in person and on the phone with family and friends to her passionate involvement in church activities. Marjorie's voice was a familiar and beloved sound as she sang and played hand percussion instruments for her congregation, her joy in worship contagious to all who heard her. Marjorie's talents extended beyond her spiritual contributions. She was a gifted cook and baker, known for her "Mexican Chicken," hearty casseroles, and freshly baked bread. Her hands were rarely still, as she found solace and joy in crocheting, drawing, painting, and embroidering, leaving behind a treasure trove of beautiful creations. Her penmanship was a work of art in itself. Never one to shy away from a conversation, Marjorie was renowned for her ability to connect with people, embodying the phrase "never met a stranger." Her generosity knew no bounds, and she was always ready to lend a helping hand or a listening ear to those in need. Marjorie's love for fashion was evident in her impeccable style, as she took great pleasure in shopping for clothes, shoes, and handbags that reflected her vibrant personality. Marjorie's love for life was also seen in her enjoyment of game shows, which brought her excitement and joy. She was a woman of many interests, but above all, she was loving, generous, and faith-filled. These words best describe Marjorie, a woman whose legacy will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her. Marjorie is preceded in death by her parents, Wesley and Lois Kern; and her loving husband, Reverend Jack Henry Austin. Her legacy continues on through her three daughters, Teresa Alverson and her husband, Reverend James "J.D." Alverson, Beverly Joy Benner and her husband, Reverend Cameron Benner, and Julie Austin Bates and her husband, Jerry Bates; her grandchildren, Carlenna Brattin, Caysha Jones, Nathan Alverson, Lydia Smith, Amy Evans, Cierra Benner, Jared Alverson, and Eliana Bates; 10 Great-grandchildren; her brother, Larry Kern; and her sister, Reta Durbin. The family would like to thank St. Luke's Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and Three Rivers Hospice for their loving care and support. Funeral services for Marjorie Austin will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at the Anderson Chapel of the Ozark Funeral Home with Reverend James "J.D." Alverson officiating. Burial will follow in the Tracy Cemetery in Anderson, Missouri. Those honoring her life by serving as pallbearers are Cameron Benner, Nathan Alverson, Jared Alverson, Brandon Brattin, Chris Smith, and Ryler Evans. Honorary pallbearers are Larry Kern, Jerry Bates, Bryan Jones, and Carl Curtis. The family will receive friends on Monday, July 28, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. in the Anderson Chapel of the Ozark Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be given to Sleep In Heavenly Peace-MO-Exeter or the Tracy Cemetery Care Fund. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our website, www.ozarkfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of the Ozark Funeral Home, in Anderson, Missouri.