Billy Sam Austin entered this world on July 15, 1938. Surrounded by his family he entered into rest in the early morning hours of March 20, 2024. He was born in the hills and hollows of Chestnut, Louisiana to Carson and Willie Mae Coffee Austin. Losing his dad at an early age and his mother leaving to look for work, a wayward teen was welcomed with open arms into the home of Mr. Casey and Mrs. Ora Holland. They treated him like their own and made sure he knew he always had a place to come back and call home.

After graduating from Ashland High School, Billy Sam served his country in the United States Navy for 4 years. Upon his return, he married the love of his life, Shirley Hayes Austin. March 29th they would have celebrated their 61st anniversary.

Sams career took him into the field of pipe fitting and welding. He spent a large part of his career working in the Gulf of Mexico, along with that came the opportunity to see the world welding in Nigeria, Brazil, Venezuela and many more interesting ports. After his retirement, early Sunday mornings were spent with Mrs. Ora drinking coffee and reading the Sunday paper. He was known all around for his wonderful cooking skills, especially his gumbos.

He was preceded in death by his parents, The Hollands, in-laws Ernest and Bessie Hayes, brothers and sister's in-law Christine and Buddy Hampton, Belle Hayes, Joyce and Chuck Miller.

He is survived by his wife Shirley, Brother in-law Ernest "Turk" Hayes, sister in-law Carol Hayes Brown. Also, a host of nephews and nieces and special friends, Charles Long and Bobby Logan, who were always just a phone call away.

Memorial Services will be held on Saturday, April 6, , 2024, at 11:00 A.M. at Old Armistead Chapel with Bro. Britt Dupree officiating and Bro. Jeff Smart assisting.

Memorials can be made to the American Heart Association, Old Armistead Chapel, or Weaver Cemetery funds or charity of choice.

The Family would like to thank everyone at Bristol Hospice for the tender care and the comfort they gave our loved one as well as the family.