John “Tommy” Austin, 81, of Hayes, answered the call to be with his Lord on Nov. 10, 2013 after a brief battle with cancer.

Anyone who knew him knew him as a kind man, a devoted man and most of all a loving man. He served his country, his family and his Lord without hesitation.

He was a man of many talents and more determination than most, always achieving what he set out to do. John was retired from the city of Hampton and was also a waterman, and held many posts throughout his lifetime.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Kitty, who was the love of his life for 44 years, and his foster parents, Jimmy and Jeanette Fowler.

He has left behind to treasure his memory his son, John and wife Holly; daughter, Kendra and husband Mike; daughter, Jeanette and husband Sean; daughter, Robin and husband Keith. He also leaves behind a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; a brother, Donnie Carmine; two nieces and numerous cousins; best friends, Fred and Betty Setterhorn, and a very special friend, Marilyn Diggs, and a host of friends and especially the Friday Lunch Bunch.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Union Baptist Church on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2013, at 12 p.m.

Memorial donations may be made to the Food Pantry at Union Baptist Church.

Andrews Funeral Home, Gloucester, is in charge of arrangements.