Bethann Austin

Bethann Austin (Cook) passed away on February 5, 2014 peacefully in her Ann Arbor home. Bethann was born on May 19, 1945 to Mabel Lee Jones and Allen Frank Cook in Monroe, Michigan. She was known to many as "Sissy". When we hear this name we all think of someone who was compassionate, someone who was always willing to help, and most of all a woman who loved to BBQ, tend to her garden, fishing and sunshine. Bethann comes from a large family; she was the oldest daughter of 10 siblings. Her love for the ocean and sunshine attracted her to move to St. Petersburg, Florida, where she met her late husband. In 1984 she had her 1st child, Amanda Austin, although she was her only child, Bethann also raised her nephew Justin Cook like a son. To be closer to family, Bethann, Amanda and other family members moved back to Ann Arbor, Michigan. At that time Bethann began working for the Ann Arbor District Library for over 10 years while she attended Washtenaw Community College, striving towards a degree in business management and child development. Bethann's last few years were spent at her Ann Arbor home, tranquilly spending time in her garden, and with her beloved family and Grandson Nicholas of whom she called "her little helper".

While living in Ann Arbor, Bethann has made many close friends, as well as spiritually embracing and nurturing their children as if they were her own. Bethann is survived by her daughter, Amanda Austin, Grandson, Nicholas Ryles, Sister Rhonda Chetcuti, Brothers Johnny Cook, Clancy Cook and Gregory Cook. Neices, Shalama Day, Bernadette Richardson, Jan LaPointe, and Elizabeth Cook Seering. Great Neice, Shaleann Williams. Nephews, Justin Cook, Hardy Cook, and Timothy Cook. Great Nephews, Neiko Thomas-Cook, Michael Williams, Tashawn Williams, Jackson and Davis Day, Armani and Kyla Cook. There are many more family and friends that take Bethann's hand in prayer to send her to peace. To honor Bethann's request, her final resting place will be St. Petersburg, Florida.

Arrangements under the direction of Muehlig Funeral Chapel, Ann Arbor, MI.