Deborah Ann Austin

Wilmington – Deborah Ann Hedrick Austin, 73 of Wilmington went to meet her Heavenly Father on March 16, 2025.

Born on September 22, 1951 in Catawba County, she was the daughter of the late John and Vertie Hedrick. Deborah was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend to all who knew her. She was the kindest, most gentlest soul who never forgot a birthday and loved to make everyone happy through food.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Rick Townsend.

Left to cherish her memory is her son, Chet Austin and wife Lara; grandchildren, Eli and Grace Austin; soul mate, Mark Burns; step-daughter, Erika Chevere and husband Juan; step-grandsons, Cruz and Cameron Chevere; sister, Teresa Drum and husband Lee; niece, Hayley Deal and husband Matt; nephew, Caleb Drum and wife Emily and numerous other family and friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Sunday, March 23, 2025 at 3 PM at Catawba Funeral Home with Pastor Troy Grant officiating. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens.

The family will receive friends prior to the service from 2 PM -3 Pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St Jude PL, Memphis TN 28105.

Condolences may be left at www.catawbamemorialark.com.

The Austin Family is under the care of Catawba Funeral Home.