Stella Austin

Stella Austin, affectionately known as “Sister Rose,” age 73, entered into eternal rest at Prisma Health Richland Hospital on Thursday, June 11, 2026. Born on June 18, 1952, she was the beloved daughter of the late George Brown and the late Evelyn Austin.

She accepted Christ at an early age and joined Bush River Missionary Baptist Church, where she faithfully served for many years. During her membership, she served diligently on the Usher’s Ministry, Senior Choir, and Pulpit Aid. She was educated in the Newberry County Public School. Her humble spirit, gentle nature, and kindness endeared her to everyone she met. She enjoyed talking on the phone with friends and family, dining out, and had a special love for cookies. Her warm personality and caring heart brought joy to all who knew her.

Stella was preceded in death by two sisters, Margaret Austin and Ralphine Brown, and one brother, Arthur Austin.

Those who celebrate and cherish her life one son, Brian Austin of the home, four sisters, Portia Williams of Newberry, SC, Georgia Pitts (Rufus) of Woodruff, SC, Debra Austin of Newberry, SC and Joane Brown of Buffalo, NY, one brother, Benjamin Austin of Atlanta, GA, three nieces, Tyechia Austin (Pat), Ariel Stevens (Mark), and Erica Austin, two nephews, Bernard Austin and Javon Austin (Shantae), Godson Henry Davenport, a special cousin Melvin Glenn and special friends, Mildred Simpkins, Mamie DeWalt, Brunell & Johnny Gray, Charles Riggins, Loretha Brown, Ruby Ruff, Barbara Jackson, Margaret Suber, and a host of great‑nieces, great‑nephews, cousins, and other family members who will miss her. She will also be deeply missed by her Bush River Missionary Baptist Church Family.

Her life was a testament of love, service, and quiet strength. She will be remembered with deep affection and gratitude.

Family visitation will be held 1-5pm Tuesday, June 16, 2026, Wilson Funeral Home, Newberry, SC.

Funeral service will be conducted 3pm Wednesday, June 17, 2026, Bush River Missionary Baptist Church, 7947 Bush River Rd, Newberry, SC 29108. 

Interment will follow in the Church Cemetery 

Wilson Funeral Home is honored to assist the Austin family

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Stella Austin, please visit our floral store.