Mary Austin

Mary Porter Austin passed away February 08, 2020 Born July 09, 1926 to Doric and Elizabeth Jeffers Porter in Evanston, Illinois where her father was employed by Illinois Bell Telephone Company. He was transferred to Springfield in 1938. Mary graduated from Springfield HIGH SCHOOL In 1944, attended Stephens College in Missouri her freshman year, transferred to University of Illinois from which she graduated in 1948 with a BS in journalism. She completed a MS degree in sociology at Sangamon State university. Mary married Allen R. Austin in 1978. Mary was a 50+ year member of the Springfield and Phoenix Junior Leagues and was and was an active volunteer in many causes. She was a "die hard Cub fan. Mary retired as Director of Community Services, Springfield Mental Health Center after 19 years. Mary and Allen moved to Phoenix in 1983. They enjoyed years if travel, swimming,golf, tennis and visits with children and grandchildren. Mary was predeceased by her parents, Allen, her husband of 32 years.and stepson Russ Austin. Survivors include: cousins Jody Burke and John Jeffers (Bev) and their children: stepdaughter and husband, Claudia and Ron Campbell, their sons Jason (his daughters Emily, Phoebe and Meghan) and Craig (his wife Deborah Campbell and sons Liam and Asher) stepdaughter-in-law Diane Austin and step-granddaughter Amanda Henderson
former sister-in-law Mildred Meyer and her children; friends in Phoenix and Illinois. The family appreciates the care and concern shown to Mary and the the family by the NHC Healthcare staff. Memorial contributions may be made to the United Church 85 Kentucky Avenue, Oak Ridge, TN 37830 or a charity of one's choice