Ronald Sidney Austin

Ronald S. “Ronnie” Austin, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend passed away on September 19, 2025, in Gulfport, Mississippi. He was born on December 14, 1944, in Hamlet, North Carolina, and lived a life dedicated to service and family.

Ronnie made significant contributions during his career, starting with his military service in the United States Army, where he honed his leadership skills as a decorated Vietnam Veteran, serving two tours of duty with the 1st Infantry Division. Later, Ronnie served twenty years with the New Orleans Police Department, retiring as a Narcotics Detective. Following his tenure in law enforcement, he moved into fraud investigations which led him and his wife, Edith “Edye” Austin, to California. After enjoying fulfilling careers Ronnie chose to return to the Gulf Coast, where he and his wife settled in Diamondhead in his retirement years.

An educated man, Ronnie started the pursuit of his college degree at Louisiana State University, and is proud to have earned his Bachelor of Science from Cameron College in Oklahoma during his distinguished military career, reflecting his commitment to personal growth and development.

Known for his quick wit and love of humor, Ronnie enjoyed telling jokes that brought laughter to those around him. His engaging personality and affable nature made him a cherished presence in the lives of his family and friends. In addition to being an LSU Tiger faithful, a staunch supporter of the Los Angeles Dodgers since they were in Brooklyn, and a trivia enthusiast, Ronnie was an avid golfer, cherishing the time he spent on the links and with his golf buddies.

He is survived by his devoted spouse of 38 years, Edith “Edye” Austin; his children Ashley Slaughter (Scott) and Shannon Dean (Jon); his brother John “Jim” DeHart Austin; and his grandchildren, Caleb Kimble, Alesce Kimble, Phoebe Dean, Josie Dean, and Claire Dean, who will forever remember the love and laughter he instilled in their lives.

Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Peggy Austin, and his brother David Scott Austin. He is remembered as a dedicated family man, a loyal friend, and a courageous veteran whose legacy will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him. His spirit will undoubtedly live on in the memories shared by his loved ones.

As were his wishes, a party will be thrown in his honor at a later date. Burial will occur at Arlington National Cemetery with military honors. For those who wish to honor Ronnie’s memory, the family asks you to consider a donation to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, 1530 Wilson Blvd., Suite 550, Arlington, VA 22209 [online at https://www.vvmf.org/giving-to-vvmf/] or to Louisiana Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), P.O. Box 41143, Baton Rouge, LA 70835 [online at https://square.link/u/SKkca00b ].

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Pass Christian is assisting the family.