John Floyd Austin, 70, of Cord, Arkansas, passed away on August 24, 2026, in Batesville, Arkansas. He was born on August 6, 1956, in Mount Pleasant, Texas, to the late George Austin and Mary “Gipson” Austin.

John was a hardworking man who spent many years working as a welder. Beyond the work he did with his hands, John will be remembered most for his love for his family, the simple things that brought him happiness, and the countless memories he created with those fortunate enough to know and love him.

John truly knew how to enjoy life. He loved hunting and fishing and listening to his “tunes”. He was the grilling man of the family and enjoyed spending time around the grill, making sure everyone was well fed. He also enjoyed four-wheeler riding, shooting pool, watching Westerns, and settling in for a good sports movie.

Sports held a special place in John’s heart, especially football. More than anything, he enjoyed watching his children and family play sports and was always proud to support them. A Texas Longhorn fan at heart from his Texas upbringing, John eventually made room for the Arkansas Razorbacks after making Arkansas his home. And when he wasn’t hunting, fishing, grilling, watching football, or spending time with family, you just might have found him at his favorite place—because John believed there was always a little room in life for good music, good company, and a good time.

At the center of John’s life was his family. He shared 36 years of marriage with his loving wife, Carolyn Austin. The life they built together was filled with family, memories, laughter, and a love that will continue through the generations they created.

John was preceded in death by his parents, George Austin and Mary “Gipson” Austin; his sister, Rhonda Gail; and his nephew, Rocky Austin.

Those who will forever carry John’s love and memory in their hearts include his devoted wife of 36 years, Carolyn Austin; two sons, Jason (Kayce) Austin and Jordy (Ashlin) Austin; one daughter, Jinger (Seth) Kemp; two bonus daughters, Lisa (Scott) Felts, and Michelle (Brenden) Bishop; one brother, Steve (Martha) Austin; and one sister, Deborah Blackwood.

He also leaves a beautiful legacy through his 12 grandchildren: Anastasia Harris, Whitney Austin, Bella Bertels, Noah Kemp, Lilyanne Kemp, Cora Kemp, Bella Austin, Reece Austin, Morgan Scott, Alli Felts, Tyler Bishop, and Logan Wallace; and four great-grandchildren, Naomi Harris, Savvy Scott, Pierce Wallace, and Elsie Bishop; along with a host of extended family members and dear friends.

John’s passing leaves an emptiness that words cannot fully express, but his family is left with something death cannot take away—the love he gave them and a lifetime of memories. They will remember the sound of his laughter, the music he loved, the smell of barbecue coming from his grill, the games he watched, the stories he shared, and all of those ordinary moments that now mean so much. His presence will be deeply missed, but the love of a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend will remain in their hearts forever.

Arrangements are entrusted to Willis Funeral Service. A memorial service honoring John’s life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, August 28, 2026, at Willis Funeral Service, with Brother Bobby Shepherd delivering the eulogy.