Kelly Wayne Austin of Kosse passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in Round Rock. He leaves behind a family who loved him dearly, friends and coworkers who respected him, and a lifetime of memories that will continue to be treasured by all who knew him.

Kelly was the kind of man who found joy in simple, meaningful things: time at home, a project to work on, a problem to solve, and the laughter and company of his children and grandchildren. His presence brought comfort, steadiness, and love to those around him.

A memorial service honoring Kelly’s life will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. in the Groesbeck Funeral Home Chapel, with Dr. Rex Bland officiating. Family and friends are invited to gather, remember, and celebrate the life of a man who meant so much to so many.

Kelly was born on February 7, 1958, in Winnsboro, Louisiana, to John William Austin, Sr. and Pocahontas Cynthia Austin (Vines). He eventually made his home in Kosse, where he lived for the past 30 years and built a life centered around work, family, and the people he loved.

For more than 20 years, Kelly worked for Frost Crushed Stone as a mechanic. He was known for his skill with his hands, his dependability, and his willingness to keep working until the job was done right. Those who worked beside him knew him as capable, steady, and dedicated.

Whether at work or at home, Kelly had a natural ability to fix things and figure things out. He enjoyed tinkering, repairing, and making use of what he had. These quiet talents reflected the kind of person he was: practical, patient, and always willing to help in his own way.

At home, Kelly was happiest surrounded by his family. He enjoyed relaxing in familiar places, working on projects, and spending time with the people who mattered most to him. His children and grandchildren gave him great pride, and his love for them was evident in the time he shared with them.

Kelly will be remembered most tenderly as a loving Dad and PawPaw. His grandbabies were his pride and joy, and he treasured every moment spent with them. The memories made together—ordinary days, shared laughs, small conversations, and family moments—will remain a lasting gift to those who loved him.

He also enjoyed the occasional trip to the casino, a chance to get away, have a little fun, and enjoy the moment. Kelly’s life was filled with the things that mattered most: family, hard work, home, and the simple pleasures that made him smile.

Kelly was preceded in death by his parents, John and Pocahontas Austin; his sister, Trisha; and his brother, Bill.

Those left to cherish Kelly’s memory include his wife of 25 years, Connie Austin of Kosse; his children, John Austin and wife Crystal, Ashley Austin and wife Maegan, Jacadi “Cadi” Kirkland, William “Will” Waldrep and wife Jennifer, Justin Austin, and Brea Nevels; and his grandchildren, Ka’don, Carlie, LeRoy, Alaia, Rylee, Nova, Cameron, Chance, Nevaeh, and Liam.

He is also survived by numerous other family members who will carry his memory forward with love. Kelly’s life will be remembered not only by the work he did or the years he lived, but by the love he gave, the family he cherished, and the lasting place he holds in the hearts of those who knew him.