James Ezra "Eddie" Austin

James Ezra "Eddie" Austin, 88, of Newbern, Tennessee, died on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at his residence in Newbern, Tennessee.

Born Sunday, March 28, 1937, in Dyersburg, Tennessee, he was the son of the late R. L. Austin and the late VeOnnia Leach Austin.  Eddie Austin was born and raised in Dyer County, Tennessee, where he spent the majority of his life surrounded by the land, people, and traditions he loved. He made his home near his family on Austin Road in the Tatumville Community, a place that always remained close to his heart.

On April 1, 1956—April Fool’s Day, Eddie married the love of his life, Jean Mitchell. Together, they shared 69 years of marriage, building a home filled with love, faith, and family. Their union stood as a beautiful example of devotion, commitment, and enduring partnership.

Eddie was a devout Christian and a lifelong member of Mt. Tirzah Baptist Church, where he faithfully served as a deacon for many years. His faith guided his life and was reflected in the kindness, integrity, and compassion he showed to others.

He proudly served his country in the Tennessee National Guard and later retired from  State of Tennessee . Though his career was meaningful, Eddie’s heart always belonged to farming, a way of life that suited his hardworking spirit and deep connection to the land.

A true people person, Eddie was known for his mischievous smile, quick wit, and warm personality. He never met a stranger and had a way of making everyone feel welcome. Through the years, he formed many friendships, and those fortunate enough to be called his friend knew they had a loyal and genuine one.

Eddie enjoyed fishing, relaxing, and watching “Gunsmoke,” but above all else, his family was the center of his world. He was happiest when everyone was gathered together, cherishing every moment spent with those he loved. The memories made with his family were his greatest treasure.

Funeral services for Mr. Austin will be held at 12:00 PM on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, in the Chapel of Johnson-Williams Funeral Home. Officiating this service will be Rev. Bill Taylor.

Interment will follow in Rehoboth Cemetery near Newbern, Tennessee. Visitation will be Monday from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM and on Tuesday from 11:00 AM until 12:00 PM both at Johnson-Williams Funeral Home.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of sixty-nine years, Jean Mitchell Austin of Newbern, Tennessee, one  son, Randy Austin (Julie) of Smyrna, Tennessee, two daughters, Rhonda Despain of Newbern, Tennessee and Laura Rogers (Patrick) of Dyersburg, Tennessee and he was "Grand-Daddy" and "Poppa" to his seven grandchildren, Ben Despain, Doug Despain (Mary), Blake Austin (Erika), Bethany Skinner (Micheal), Cooper Austin (Morgan), Cole Rogers and Parker Austin and five great-grandchildren, Autry Despain, Ryan Despain, Addie Despain, Brooks Skinner and Andi Austin.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Almous Austin, and one sister, Peggy Austin Shuck.

Honorary Mr. Austin as pallbearers will be his grandsons. Honorary pallbearer will be his grand-daughter.

Online condolences may be made to the family at johnsonwilliamsfuneralhome.com. Johnson-Williams Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of James Ezra "Eddie" Austin.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James Ezra "Eddie" Austin, please visit our floral store.