Evelyn Marie Keith Austin

With heavy hearts, we announce the unexpected passing of Evelyn Marie Austin, lovingly known to most as Marie, on June 23, 2026, at the age of 78.

Marie was welcomed into Heaven by her parents, Luther and Zettie Bell Keith; her brothers, Gerald Keith, Curtis Keith, Karl Keith, and William Keith; and her sisters, Janie Horne and Garnett Haynes. Her dear friends Norma Entsminger, Ruth O'Conner and Wanda Taylor.

She leaves behind a family who loved her beyond measure: her sisters, Ruthanne Holley and husband Tommy Holley along with JT Holley (Nephew), and Kathy Semales and husband Bob Semales; her children, Robert Austin and husband Jimmie Reed, Kelly Harris and husband Jeff Harris, Renee Austin, and David Austin.

She was the proud and devoted Maw Maw, Nana, Nannie, and "Miss Maria" to her grandchildren: Amber MacBrien and husband Gavin MacBrien, Preston Austin (fiancée Jessie Slattery), Brandon Downs (significant other Delilah Nolen), Ian Harris, Brock Harris, Jeremy Austin, and Jared Austin.

Her greatest joy continued to grow with her great-grandchildren: Brecken and Madeline MacBrien, Vega and Valen Downs, and Evelyn "Evie" and Shane Austin, each of whom brought a special sparkle to her eyes.

Marie also leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews who loved her dearly, along with countless lifelong friends who became family over the years. She shared a particularly special friendship with Kathy Judy, whose love and laughter meant the world to her.

To know Marie was to love her. She had a quick wit, an even quicker comeback, and never met a stranger. You never quite knew what was going to come out of her mouth next, but you could count on it making you laugh. She had a heart as big as the hills and loved her people fiercely.

If there was a yard sale or thrift store nearby, chances are Marie had already been there-and probably found a treasure she'd proudly tell you all about. She believed the best things in life weren't always expensive, and she had a knack for finding beauty where others might have walked right past it.

More than anything, Marie loved her family. Whether she was stopping by for a visit, checking in on someone she loved, or simply stretching out for a quick nap on your couch, she made every house feel a little more like home. She built her life around spending time with the people who meant the most to her, and those moments will be treasured forever.

Marie was one of the strongest women you'll ever meet-steady through life's storms, generous with her love, and always ready with a smile, a story, or a laugh. She was truly one of a kind, and while our hearts are greatly broken, we're thankful for every memory she gave us.

Though she has left this earthly home, her laughter, love, and unforgettable spirit will live on in all who knew her. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Marie's life at a memorial gathering; Monday, June 29, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Botetourt Event Center. In true Marie fashion, the family welcomes everyone to stop by, share stories, laughter, and memories, and celebrate the remarkable woman she was.