Ernestine McGriff Austin

Ernestine McGriff Austin, age 88, passed from this life on Thursday, May 8, 2014, at Gardner Nursing Center in Star City. She was born in Cleveland County Feb. 5, 1926, to Ernest D. and Alcy McGriff. She was a member of the Church of Christ. Mrs. Austin was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Jason Austin. They were involved in community endeavors including working for the restoration of the city square and clock tower, helping to start a recycling service and many other activities. She was a member of the Extension Homemakers Club (formerly Home Demonstration Club) since she was 16. Her greatest joy in life was her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She survived the deaths of her parents; and her sister, Marceline McGriff Simmons; her brother-in-law, Russell Simmons; and a son, Jason Leon Austin. Her family includes her son and daughter-in-law, David and Barbara Austin of Star City; daughter and son-in-law, Gwen and Mike Ferguson of Kingsland, Texas. Grandchildren are Randy and Chaney Raley of Atlanta, Texas, Rhonda Raley of Conroe, Texas, Tracy and J.R. Harrell of Star City, Kelly and Cody Sublett of Conway, and Shane Austin of Washington, D.C. Great-grandchildren are Austin Wilkerson, Aidan Harrell, Easton Harrell, all of Star City, Lyndy and Lee Raley of University of Central Arkansas, Presley Kate Prew and Keaton Sublett of Conway. Mrs. Austin is also survived by many nieces and nephews, whom she loved dearly, and many friends. Her extended family also includes, Julie and Mike McMillan, Natalie and Chaz Jones, Brittany and Ben Herrington and Peyton Jones. Services will include a visitation at Griffin Funeral Service on Monday, May 12, 2014, from 6-8 p.m. and a graveside service at Leek Cemetery on Tuesday, May 13, 2014 at 10 a.m., with Bro. Gary Dutton officiating. The family will receive guests at 427 Freedom Road, Star City, Ark. 71667. Arrangements by Griffin Funeral Service in Star City. Online guestbook at www.griffinfuneralservice.net.