Katherine Duncan Austin

Katherine D. Austin (Kathy) passed away at home, peacefully, on August 2, 2026 surrounded by her loving family. Kathy was born on January 19, 1949 to Dr. Richard H. Duncan and Helen A. Duncan. She attended Las Cruces High School in New Mexico and was a 1967 graduate. She continued her studies at The University of New Mexico receiving a bachelor’s degree in Nursing and later a Masters in Healthcare Administration from Mississippi College.

Following college graduation, she was commissioned into the United States Army as a Captain in the US Army Nurse Corp serving at home and abroad in Korea. One tour of duty assignment in 1979 was Fort Polk, Louisiana. It was there that she met and married Doug Austin, her husband, who was also a Captain in the US Army Corp. After marrying, they both resigned their Commissions and began their 40 years of marriage. Kathy then began her career as a Nurse for the Veterans Health Administration holding positions in Texas, California, Colorado, and Mississippi before shifting into work as a Director of Nurses at several nursing homes in Florida and Mississippi.

Kathy retired from nursing in 2018. Doug, Kathy and son Drew returned to Madison in 2016 to be closer to family and friends. They built their dream home on the outskirts of Madison where she curated a fine collection of artwork and antiques.

Out of the many things that Kathy loved there are a few that stand out. She loved filling Christmas tins full of delicious treats during the holidays. Each outfit that she wore was put together with care and she was always thrilled with a cute pair of shoes. Gifting a pair of John’s Crazy Socks to friends and family made her very proud. She could always be seen at home with a dog or two in her lap or in the floor wrestling with a growling puppy. She delighted in a quirky or heartfelt greeting card, showing her love and admiration through them. Kathy could take a thought and turn it into a witty poem. She also enjoyed telling stories of growing up in New Mexico with her doting father. She enjoyed Sunday lunches surrounded by family. She was an advocate for her grandson, Will, participating in Buddy Walks for Downs Syndrome. But most of all, she loved her Doug. They saw each other through each joy and pain, setting an example for those around them.

Kathy will always be remembered for her strong commitment and strength to any challenges that she faced and unconditional love for her family, friends and Country.

Kathy is survived by two daughters and one son: Allana Austin from Tupelo, Audrey Austin Everett (Chad) and Drew Austin from Madison. She is also survived by a sister from Tupelo, Susan Carter (Don) and nephews Austin Walton (Anna) and Jordan Carter (Katy). She was the proud grandmother of Jacob, Reese and Will Grogan and Kody, Kyle, Branson, and Aniston Everett.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be donated to The Central MS Down Syndrome Society at CMDSS.org or mailed to 667 US-51, Suite C, Ridgeland, MS 39157