John W. Austin, Jr.

John W. Austin Jr, 63, of Zion, IL passed away Monday, August 10, 2020 in his home. John was born October 4, 1956 in Portsmouth, OH to John and Janet (nee Bowling) Austin Sr. He was a prior resident of New Boston, Ohio. John graduated from New Boston High School in Ohio where he was in the Vocational Program. After graduation, at the young age of 17, he enlisted in the United States Navy. John served his country proudly; he loved his country. While living in Portsmouth, OH he married the love of his life, Cheryl Bailey and together they shared 42 years of marriage. John was a member of the Well Church in Kenosha, WI. He was very active in the Zion community where he worked as a part time Police Officer and full time Park Ranger, in addition to volunteering his time with Zion ESDA. John was passionate about Veterans Affairs and the FOP. John loved westerns and wartime movies. He enjoyed spending his time trying to fix things; he liked motorcycles and cars in his younger years. He was known to participate in factual debates with friends and family. His greatest joy was his granddaughter, Alyssa. John is survived by his children, John W. (Shannon Lassiter) Austin III and Kristina (Henry Benjamin III) Austin; grandchildren, Marceous, Marcese and Alyssa; great-granddaughters, Eliana and Dalilah; beloved, special cousin, Sue Adkins; cousin, Mark Adkins; granddogs, Ruck, Nala, Capone and Shadow; and a host of cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Cheryl; and brothers, Rodney and Danny Austin. Services will be held at a later date.