Joy Austin

Joy Austin Resident of Rossmoor, Walnut Creek Helen Joy Margaret (Thurman) Austin was born in London, England on February 25, 1932. She passed away suddenly at home on November 24, 2010. An only child, her family sent her to America in 1940 to live with a foster family in Delaware during World War II so she was safe. She returned home to England in 1946 after the war ended. Joy was an aspiring model and at age 21 she left home and moved back to America in 1953, settling in St. Louis, MO in search of a career. While living in St Louis she met and married James Kenelm Austin II on February 12, 1955. They decided to head west, settling in Seattle WA, where they raised five kids. In 1971 the family headed south ending up in Walnut Creek in 1972. Once her kids were grown and gone and she was on her own, Joy worked in various administrative positions, moving around the Bay Area, but always circled back to Walnut Creek. She filled her spare time volunteering for many charities and belonging to local parent groups, but her biggest devotion was her beloved Oakland Athletics. Joy was an avid A's fan and long time season ticket holder. She loved the annual Spring Training trip to Phoenix with her friends. In 1999 Joy was very proud to become an American citizen. Joy was a loving & caring mother and devoted grandmother, who brought "joy" to everyone she met. She was always there when a family member or friend was in need. She religiously attended her five grandkids events; piano concerts, soccer, baseball and football games, swim meets, cheerleading competitions and all the graduations along the way. The grandkids will all miss her "Jolly Good!" cheers from the sidelines as she supported them in everything they did. Predeceased by her son, James Kenelm III in 1992 she is survived by her son Ralph (Sydney) Austin, daughter Elizabeth (Steven) Venema, son Matthew Austin, and daughter Susan (Gary) Newman; and grandchildren Colin, Kelsey & Kyle Austin and Amanda & Alexis Venema. Joy will be greatly missed by everyone and will finally be reunited with her son, Kenny, in heaven. Please join as we celebrate Joy's life with a service at St. Anne's Church, 1600 Rossmoor Parkway, Walnut Creek on December 9th at 1pm, and a reception immediately following. She will be laid to rest next to Kenny in the Lafayette Cemetery in a private burial service.

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