Hurshel Lee Austin

Wilson- Celebration of life services for Mr. Hurshel Lee Austin,Sr., 86, of Wilson are scheduled for 2:00 PM on Thursday, December 3, 2015 at the Bomar Pt Cemetery Pavilion with his grandson, Lance Hudson officiating. Services are under the care and direction of Alexander Funeral Home of Wilson.

Hurshel was born on July 2, 1929 to the late Mr. Albert Austin and Mrs. Ruby (Copeland) Austin. He departed this life Sunday, November 29, 2015 at his home in Wilson.

Hurshel was raised at Orr and Wilson attending school there. He joined the U.S. Navy on the Buddy System in 1948. He served 20 years, 4 months, and 18 days on ships Antietam, Lexington, and the U.S.S. Forrestal. He married Mildred Orta on September 28, 1950 at Hawaii. Mildred preceded him in death on November 5, 1976. He later married the former Maxine Sirmon on March 4, 1977 at Gainesville, TX. She preceded him in death on April 3, 2011. After Hurshel retired he worked some in construction while he resided in the Ft. Worth area. Hurshel moved back to Wilson in 1988 where he enjoyed his retirement.

Also preceding him in death were his parents; brother, Roy and sister Elaine and his stepdad, Minor Hodgson.

Survivors include his daughters, Debbie White and husband Jim, Roaxann Heath and husband Bob; sons, Hurshel Austin, Jr., Paul Austin; step sons, Doug White and wife Lynn, Kirk White; step daughter, Vicki Cox and Husband Terry; 12 grandchildren; 23 great grandchildren; sister, Jennie Henley; numerous other family and friends.

Family visitation will be held from 5 to 7 PM Wednesday evening at Alexander Funeral Home of Wilson.