Alan David Austin, 78, of Niota, Tennessee, passed away on October 25, 2026. His story began, November 13, 1948, in a coal camp in Killarney, West Virginia.

During his senior year of high school, Alan moved to Florida, a move that would forever change the course of his life. It was there that he met his soulmate, Brenda, and together they walked hand in hand for more than 60 years, building a life filled with love, memories, and family.

Alan proudly served his country in Vietnam in 1968 and 1969. Following his military service, he settled in Homosassa, Florida, where he worked hard to provide for his family as an industrial sandblaster and painter. He was a member of the International Union of Painters and Allied trades (IUPAT) for 50 years . His work often took him far from home, but no matter where the job led him, he always made room for one of his greatest passions: fishing. From the banks of Alaska to the Gulf Shores of Florida and the many rivers in between, he could often be found with a fishing pole in hand, “wetting a hook” .

A quiet man by nature, Alan didn’t need many words to make himself heard. When he did speak, everyone in the room listened. His memorable one-liners often said more than a long conversation ever could, leaving behind laughter and memories that those who knew him will cherish for years to come.

Above all, Alan was a man of faith. He was never afraid to share his beliefs, speak of God’s goodness, or tell of the miracles he believed God had performed. His faith was an important part of who he was, and he carried it with him throughout his life’s journey.

Alan was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Carol Austin, of Homosassa, Florida, and his brother, Ray Austin (Jo Ann), of Coal City, West Virginia.

Those left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Brenda, of Niota, Tennessee; his daughter, Brandi Austin Jones (Dennis), of Niota, Tennessee; Courtney Austin; his sister, Carolyn, of Homosassa, Florida and his grandchildren, Nathan Jones and Kinley Austin.

Alan’s life was one of hard work, devotion to family, quiet humor, and steadfast faith. He leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured in miles traveled or fish caught, but in

the lives he touched, the wisdom he shared in a few well-chosen words, and the faith he carried throughout his days.

Though he has laid down his fishing pole for the final time, his story has not ended; family and friends can find comfort in the memories he leaves behind and in the promise of the eternal peace he so often spoke of. His presence will be deeply missed, his stories will continue to be told, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

A graveside Service will be held at 2 p.m., on Friday, October 30, 2026 at the Chattanooga National Cemetery.

The Family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m. on Friday, October 30, 2026 in the chapel of Decatur Funeral Home & Cremation Services.

Decatur Funeral Home & Cremation Services is honored to serve the Austin family.