Joseph Lee Austin, Sr., known affectionately as Mr. Joe, was born January 31, 1940, in Valdosta, Georgia to the late Robert Lee Austin, Sr. and Bessie Mae Austin.

The oldest of 11 children, Mr. Joe was educated in the Hillsborough County Public School system.

On February 1, 1992, he married the love of his life, Jannine S. Hill in Bradenton, FL. Everyone who was blessed enough to witness their interactions could easily see that he adored his wife.  He honored and cherished Jan until he went to be with the Lord. This union saw an amazing 32 years!

Always a man of class, Mr. Joe was an impeccable dresser. His top-notch fashion sense landed him in many  modeling contests; so much so, that eventually he was asked not to enter anymore because he knocked out all the competition! This is how he earned the nickname "Super Fly".

In his professional life, he left an indelible mark. He was employed at Tropicana Products for over 30 years,  retiring on February 2, 2004. While at Tropicana, he was the supervisor of Fruit Receiving. Recognizing the need for a more efficient system, he invented a special basket that Tropicana placed on the conveyor belt to catch the leaves from the fruit. As result of this creation, Mr. Joe saved Tropicana millions of dollars. This economic prowess would benefit him in all aspects of his life, especially after retirement.

After retirement he focused on catering to his family, focusing on duties at his church, and empowering those in his community. He joined Pathways Christian Fellowship under the Pastorate of Reverend Dr. Willie J. Holley.

A jack of all trades, Mr. Joe was a master inventor and builder, and could recognize, troubleshoot and solve many challenges, most times without previous exposure, experience, direction or guides. If you were to ask Joe to fix something he had not done before, he would put his hands to his face turn it to the side and say "I'll be back".  When he came back, he had it, he was a genius! He even worked as a mechanic with his own shop.  Mr. Joe     actually built an award-winning Cadillac truck.  This truck was one of his most prized possessions.

Mr. Joe had an electric spirit that lit up any room he entered. His personality was infectious, and it was difficult to be around Mr. Joe and not be in a good mood. He never met a stranger and was happy to give advice or a share a life lesson, whether you asked for it or not. Although Mr. Joe has transcended the physical realm, he left plenty for us to ponder, to laugh at, to long for and to strive for. He certainly would want his words of wisdom, and the lessons learned from his life to be an example of how to recognize greatness in yourself and to never stop striving to exceed it.

He was able to turn hobbies into blessings for others. He was known for his amazing cooking abilities, particularly for BBQ. He founded Big Joe's BBQ and catered several community events including: Take Stock in Children's annual picnic; and various events for the East Palmetto Women's Club. The Women's Club was so impressed with his skill, they made him an honorary member. This man was charisma personified!

He also loved to dance, bowl, skate, and ride bicycles. He traveled throughout the state to attend bowling tournaments where he often won cash prizes. He even could sew. This is how he was able to remain so fashion forward…if he couldn't buy it, he could make it.

He doted on all of his children. Whether biological or otherwise, he adored all of his nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great grandchildren and godchildren.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Minister Eloise Warren, and two brothers: Robert L. Austin, Jr., and Thomas Austin, and one son, Sandford Perkins.

He leaves to cherish his amazing memory: his wife, Jannine S. Austin; his daughters: Alesha Ajavon (Francis), Nicole O. Williams, Yaphora S. Austin,  Tykeriah S. Austin, Matilda Scott (James), Marilyn Austin, Brendtina  Lane (Keith), Tanyanyika Daughtry (Tanikious), Thomkita Sloan, Christine E. Lee (Derrick), and Lakesha Owens; sons: Craig J. Carley (Amina), Gearld Perkins, Sr., Iron Perkins, Sr. (Tammy), and Joseph L. Austin, Jr.; siblings: Amos Casttillo (Gloria), Samuel Austin (Bertha), Linda Austin Green (Marion), Sharon Ivory (Johnny), Iris Austin (Willie), Ronnie Austin (Helen), and Andrea Logan (Leonard); aunt, Essie Mazion; uncle, Eugene Austin; and a host of grandchildren; greatgrandchildren, nephews, nieces, cousins, family, and friends. Family~~