Linda Joyce Austin

Linda Joyce (Johnson) Austin, 73, of McRae, Ark., went home to rest with Jesus on October 11, 2021. She was born on January 2, 1948, in Searcy, Ark., to the late Jefferson Johnson and Jetta Faye Salmon Johnson. She met her husband, Tommy, at Powell's Department Store in Beebe, while he was shopping for work boots. He asked for a date and the rest was history; they were married in 1966. Her devout love for him led to many adventures throughout their marriage. Where Tommy went, Linda followed, and he remained by her side until the end. Linda built a career in the banking industry for many years. Her knowledge and experience helped her and Tommy later open a business, Austin Ready Mix, which they took great pride in. Linda was a genuine follower of Christ and her heart and spirit have always been focused on church and her community; she enjoyed the fellowship and gospel singing immensely. Linda also relished in several hobbies, such as, gardening, farming, sewing, cross stitching, and crafting. She loved a good book and could often be found curled up somewhere reading, when time allowed. Linda adored her children and grandchildren; having sleepovers and attending their sporting events was one of her greatest joys. She was preceded in death by her father, Jefferson Johnson. She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Tommy Austin; her children, Tommy Austin II (Julie), and Tammy Strode (Sam); four grandchildren, S. Nathan Strode (Karlee), Tracer Austin (Alicia), Kimberly Kaplon (Blake), and Claire Goff (Austin); eight great-grandchildren, Avery, Brylee, Drake, Hunter, Easton, Aria, Kasey, and Brinley Kate; her mother, Jetta Faye Johnson; two sisters, Carolyn Smith (Butch), and Patricia Adams; one brother, Richard Johnson (Tammy); and countless nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. Visitation is Friday from 6-8 p.m. at Smith Westbrook Funeral Home. Funeral services are Saturday at 10 a.m. at Smith Westbrook Funeral Home with entombment to follow at Meadowbrook Memorial Gardens. Please visit www.smithfamilycares.com/westbrook for online guest register.