Elder Charles Floyd Austin, 69, of Piedmont, South Carolina, passed away peacefully at home on March 23, 2026. He was the beloved husband of Mrs. Doreen Austin. Charles was preceded in death by his father, Charlie Auston, and his mother, Dorothy Auston. He received his education at Hunter-Kinard High School in Norway, South Carolina, and furthered his studies at Greenville Technical College in Industrial Electronics. Charles dedicated 13 years of service to the State of New York, retiring from OASAS. A faithful servant of God, Charles was a devoted member of the Church of Christ at I-85, where he served as an elder, Sunday school teacher, and preacher. His life reflected his strong faith, compassion, and commitment to uplifting others.

He leaves to cherish in loving memory his devoted wife, Doreen Austin; six  children: Johnny (Rhonda) Blackwell of Laurens, South Carolina; Allen Blackwell of Laurens, South Carolina; Lance McBee of Simpsonville, South Carolina; Christy Blackwell of Piedmont, South Carolina; Valencia Austin of Rockaway, New York; and Cory (Kameshia) Blackwell of Raleigh, North

Carolina.

He is also survived by two sisters, Carolyn (Langston) Blackwell of New York and Sherry (Willie) Seawright of Easley, South Carolina; one brother, Ronnie Thomas of New York; 17 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; 2 special nieces, Shana Seawright of Bahrain; Tiffany Seawright of Winston Salem, North Carolina, and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family,

and dear friends. Elder Austin will be remembered for his wisdom, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his family, church, and community. His legacy of love and faith will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.