James "Jimmy" A. Austin

In the early morning hours of Sunday, June 3 2018, James A. (Jimmy) Austin, 74, of Buchanan, won his battle against Glioblastoma. Jimmy was a retired supervisor from Groendyk Manufacturing in Buchanan. Jimmy was the son of the late Claudie Matthew and Viola Linkenhoker Austin. He was also predeceased by his step-daughter, Valerie Booze. Jimmy is survived by his wife of 14 years, Betsy; his son, Todd and wife, Jennifer of Buchanan; granddaughter, Carly and husband, Patrick Toler of Bedford, grandson, Ethan and fiancée, Ciera Foley of Buchanan; grandson, Seth Snead of Eagle Rock; and stepson, Chris Perez, of Natural Bridge Station. He is survived by 4 great-grandchildren and 3 step-great- grandchildren. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Sandra Fisher; friend and former wife, Joyce Wood; and his canine buddy, Rascal. In earlier years, Jimmy enjoyed fishing with his friends. Many a fish were caught, stories were told, and many beers were drank along creek banks and the James River. Jimmy had a curiosity about what made things work and he had the ability to figure it out, sometimes making things work even better while "tinkering" with them in the garage. Even though he was a retired supervisor, Jimmy still liked to oversee Todd and Ethan's work in the garage giving out any advice he felt they needed. Jimmy liked all types of racing but drag racing was his favorite. Many weekends you would find Jimmy and Betsy at the drag strip where Todd was racing. Jimmy wasn't just a spectator, he was the pit crew and chief mechanic, spending time between rounds, and many weeknights, making sure the car was running just right. Jimmy was a proud Dad, Papaw, and Great-Papaw. He enjoyed his time spent with Carly and Ethan and loved to sit and watch the great grandkids play when they came to visit. "Jimmy-Our time together ended too soon and I miss you very much. I will cherish our time together and hold those memories close to my heart. I know you're looking out for me and that keeps me going. Love You, Betsy. "Dad-You were not just a Dad to me but you were also my friend. You taught me so many things and gave me so many great memories. I will miss you everyday but I take comfort in knowing you are at peace. Love, Todd" "Papaw-You were the greatest Papaw anyone could ask for and I am so proud that I got to have you as mine. Love, Ethan" "Papaw—I love you very much and I will miss you every day. I will keep you close to me in my heart. Love, Carly" A causal memorial gathering will be held from 6-8pm Wednesday, June 6, 2018 in the Buchanan Chapel of Botetourt Funeral Home. Flowers are beautiful, however the family wishes memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society.