Otis James Austin, better known as OJ Austin entered this life February 4, 1929 via Katie Payton and Jasper Johnson.  Shortly after birth his mother gave him to her cousin Bill Austin.  Bill and his wife Eva raised him as their son in their Albany home.

He attended local Dougherty County schools that were designated for "coloreds".   After fighting in the Korean War he returned to Albany.  He completed high school after the War and in the mid-1960's started working for the Marine Corps Logistics Base, earning an hourly wage of $1.70. He received several awards and promotions for his performance.  He retired in 1992 to spend more time with his lovely wife, Florence Williams whom he married July 16, 1957.  They were happily married for 51 years.  In the mid 1960's they purchased their love filled home at 1129 East Roosevelt, Albany, Georgia, which is where they resided until their deaths.  He was a member of Mt. Holder Baptist Church for over 50 years where he served in various ministries.

The Facebook post below was written by his beloved niece Valarie "Sugar Bee" Hans and accurately reflects OJ's life based on my experiences and comments I heard from others about my cherish cousin.

Friday, August 1st, marks a profoundly sacred day when my Uncle OJ bid a triumphant farewell to his earthly journey, gifting us with 96 remarkable years of love, wisdom, and joy.

He navigated life's paths with exceptional grace, driving through its twists and turns with unparalleled poise. His enduring devotion to my beloved Aunt Florence, who left this world July 5, 2008, remained unwavering, as he chose to stay devotedly single. Though they didn't have children of their own, they enveloped us all in unconditional love, treating us like their own. Summers spent with them were treasured escapes filled with laughter and warmth. They'd travel tirelessly from Albany, Georgia, to Lumberton, North Carolina, just to visit or pick us up, selflessly putting our needs before their own.

In my 49 years, I never once heard him raise his voice; instead, I was blessed with his gentle spirit. Every year, he'd call on my birthday and send thoughtful cards filled with love, not just on this special day but also at Christmas. His heart remained untouched by gossip or ill-will; he lived above the noise. What a legacy of peace, joy, and love! I'm overflowing with gratitude for the countless memories, shared laughter, and affection that my family got to experience with him. One of my most cherished memories remains that Atlanta Braves baseball game, where he joyfully shed his shoes, reveling in pure delight!

Get your rest Uncle OJ…although you will be missed, God knows best! You said "If I don't rise in the morning, I've lived a good 96 years!"

He leaves to experience life's swift transitions a devoted sister Stella Wade, Cleveland, OH; nieces Valarie (Reginald) Hans, Providence Force, VA; Pamela Edith, Mobile, AL; Karen (Michael) Edith, Fairfield, CA; Gloria and  Janelle Johnson, Albany.  Nephews Fred (Leychia) Payton, York, PA; Everette (Patricia) Payton, Bronx, NY; Verzell (Kellie) King, Christopher and Alaric King all of Cleveland, OH; David (Janie) Johnson, Dayton, TN; Richard (Betty) Johnson, Willard, MO; Larry (Michelle) Johnson, Leesburg, GA; Curtis Johnson, Leesburg, GA; Anthony (Bonnie) Edith, Richmond, VA and Barry (Carl) Edith, Bangor, ME.  He also leaves a dear Neighbor/Daughter Shirley Johnson and two adored cousins Dr. Ola Brown, Albany and Bruce Lewis, Stone Mountain, GA.