Sadly, Jimmy Lee Austin, 86, of Loudonville, NY, passed away peacefully at home on January 8, 2025. Jimmy was born in Peoria, Illinois on May 16, 1938. He is predeceased by his loving wife of thirty-five years, Theresa (Paquet) Austin, his parents Roy and Helen (Madison) Austin, his brother Mike, his sister Judy and his granddaughter Haylee Devine.

Upon graduating DePauw University, the first in his family to attend college, Jimmy enlisted in the Navy serving on the USS Constellation.  It was during this time he met and married Theresa.  Wanting to be a “family man”, he increased his Navy duration in exchange for permanent shore duty at the US Naval War College in Newport Rhode Island.  With an honorable discharge he and Terry moved to West Hartford, Connecticut where Jimmy worked over forty years for Connecticut Bank & Trust, leaving as a Senior Vice President.  He then joined ADS Consulting and traveled the country bringing banks in alignment for Y2K.  He met Laura shortly before retiring. Jimmy gave back to his community by volunteering at the St. Augustine Lighthouse where he cataloged museum artifacts.  He also volunteered at Flagler Hospital for ten years in the Accounting Department. 

He was affectionately known as "OT," a nickname born when he was asked what he wanted his grandchildren to call him, and he replied, “Old Timer.”

A passionate sports enthusiast and natural competitor, Jimmy’s love for all sports, especially basketball and running, brought him joy throughout his life, and he could still be seen body surfing  into his 70s. He spent many happy hours coaching young athletes, engaging in spirited poker games, and walking along the shore, savoring the beauty and serenity of the ocean. Jimmy’s culinary favorites, like pizza, fried shrimp, and navy beans with cornbread, often accompanied family game nights filled with laughter and friendly rivalry. Music also played an important role in his life, with the song "Me and Bobby McGee" his favorite, and weekends at Traditional Jazz Festivals a particular joy.

Jimmy  was a devoted family man and leaves behind his loving wife of twenty-five years, Laura (Butler) (Yocum) Austin and a large blended family.  His children: Steven (Cindy) Austin, Eric (Magaly) Austin and Sherral (Eric) Devine.  His step sons: Benjamin (Jennifer) Yocum and Steven Yocum.  His grandchildren: Jill Austin, Emily Austin, Brianna (David) Villegas, Anthony Austin, Zoe Devine, Spencer Devine, Andrew Yocum and Emily Yocum.  And lastly, a recent precious great granddaughter, Sophie Villegas.  He also leaves behind his lifelong best friend, Jack “Garth” Olson, along with countless others who were touched by his kindness and humor.

OT’s life was lived in three distinct sections. His youth as a midwestern young man. His time with Theresa and his children where a whirlwind romance led to a joyful marriage and family life. And after Theresa's passing, where Jimmy faced profound heartbreak, but was fortunate to find love again with Laura, with whom he built another deeply cherished chapter of his life that lasted until his death 25 years later.

A quiet man with a sharp, dry sense of humor, Jimmy could light up any room with his wit. Beneath his reserved demeanor, he was a goofy guy and you never quite knew what to expect. Jimmy’s was a heart full of love and devotion to his family and friends. He cherished moments spent with loved ones, leaving behind memories that will be forever treasured.

Jimmy also took great care in maintaining his health and fitness, a discipline that defined much of his life. However, he could not ward off Alzheimer’s disease, which he faced with courage, dignity, and grace, never losing his gentle spirit or characteristic humor. With Laura’s unwavering love and care, he remained at home, enveloped in a nurturing and loving environment, until the very end.

Jimmy Lee Austin will be remembered for his love of family, his passion for sports and competition, his wit, and his warm, kind presence. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and resilience that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

A celebration of life will be held on May 3rd, 2025, at which time Jimmy’s cremains will be placed along side Theresa at Mount Saint Benedict Cemetery in Bloomfield, Connecticut.