Gene was born on October 19, 1953 in New Bern to George C. Austin, Jr. and Margaret Stapleford Austin. He graduated from New Bern High School and attended Chowan College. He worked for many years at Hatteras Yachts.
Gene was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his son, Evan Garrett Austin of Mt. Holly, NJ; one sister, Gloria Sue Austin of New Bern; two brothers, William O. "Bill" Austin (Sheila) of New Bern and George C. Austin, III (Sheryl) of Greensboro; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A Memorial Service to celebrate his life will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, February 3, 2018 at Cotten Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 pm, and at other times at the home of Bill and Sheila Austin.
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in Gene's name to the COPD Foundation, 3300 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Miami, FL 33134.
