Michele Jayne Austin, 77, passed away December 21, 2024, at her home in Ocala, Florida.
Michele was born June 3, 1947, in Tampa, Florida, to Edson and Patricia Drake at MacDill Air Force Base. As a military child, she lived in several states in her earlier years. In 1964, her family moved to Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, where she met her husband, Joseph Thomas Austin, II, and graduated from Bloomsburg State College with a degree in Art History. Together they had four children.
Michele spent many years in Pennsylvania, owning a horse farm and successful real estate company. She eventually retired to Ocala, Florida to continue her horse farm business and enjoy the warmth and sunshine of Florida.
At her death, Michele was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Williston, Florida. During her life, Michele had apassion for migrant and immigrant ministry, helping numerous people and families adjust to being in a new country, becomecitizens, and find a new and fulfilling life in the United States. Michele also spent many years in religious education, being a former director of religious education in the Diocese of Orlando.
Michele is survived by her husband, Tom; son, Joseph Thomas (Laura) Austin III; two grandchildren, Hunter and Rachel Austin; mother, Patricia Drake Overbeck; two sisters, Mary (David) Lunger and Angela Renninger; and numerous nieces,nephews, and friends.
She is preceded in death by her children, John, Suzanne, and Christopher; father, Edson Drake; sister, Hollie Stewart; and brother, Edson “Jim” Drake.
Michele will always be remembered for her red hair and corresponding personality. She hated the cold and was thrilled to retire to Florida’s warm climate. She was a lover of travel and experiencing the fullness of life in every corner of the world. Michele was a kind and warm person, who was always helping others. She was a loving wife, devoted mother, proud nana, and ardent animal lover, leaving behind her beloved horses, dogs, and cats.