Ronald L. Austin

Ronald L. Austin, 78, of Lehigh Acres, Florida, passed away on March 5, 2020 at his home.  He was born on August 20, 1941 in Norris City, the son of the late Ivan M. and Ruby N. Austin.  Ron married Betty Ann Thomas Barnes on December 2, 1963.  Ron served in the U.S. Navy for twenty-five years including two tours in Vietnam.  He was a Linguist and Communications Tech.  After retiring from the Navy he did consulting work in Bethesda, Maryland for NSA and the CIA for ten years.  Ron spent many long periods of time in submarines away from his family all over the world.  It was his childhood dream to be in the Navy.  He is survived by his loving family, one son, William LeRoy Barnes (Patricia) of Equality; two great brothers, Michael Austin of Norris City and Stanley Austin of Carmi; nine grandchildren; several great grandchildren; nieces and nephews.  Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Ivan M. and Ruby N. Austin; his beloved wife of forty-five years, Betty Ann Austin; one daughter, Connie Sue Barnes and one nephew, Timothy English.  There will be a memorial service for Ron on Saturday, August 8, 2020 at the Community Family Life Center at 194 Calhoun Street in Equality at 11 a.m.  Pastor Peggy Winters will officiate the service.  Graveside service will follow at Elmwood Cemetery with military rites.  Due to Covid-19, social distancing and masks are required.