Kerry Adams Thurman Austin

Published 9:31 am Monday, December 23, 2024

Kerry Adams Thurman Austin, age 77, of Tryon, North Carolina, peacefully passed away on December 19, 2024, at her home after a long battle with Corticobasal Degeneration. She was born on October 15, 1947, in Atlanta, Georgia where she lived for 60 years prior to retiring to Tryon.

In Atlanta, she worked as a head teller at First National Bank Atlanta, where she met her husband of 53 years, Jon L. Austin. She raised her family while owning her own interior design business, Austin Interiors. She also was a Realtor for 20 years earning membership in the Platinum Club with Remax.

Kerry was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She lived her life with a strong devotion to family, faith, and the beauty of restoration. Kerry and Jon began renovating houses in Atlanta in 1972 shortly after they married, and together they restored and lived in numerous beautiful homes that they restored. Known for her kindness, generosity, and vibrant spirit, she never met a stranger. Kerry found joy in helping others and took great pride in making the old new again, whether through acts of service or creative endeavors. Above all, she had a profound desire to “fix it,” whether it was a person, a project, or a challenge. She taught her children love and compassion, the importance of power tools, and to appreciate the restoration of old things.

Kerry is survived by her beloved husband, Jon; her children, Lane (David) Austin Wall and Parker (Anna) Austin; her sisters, Charlotte Miller and Anna Powell; her two adored granddaughters, Hannah and Dottie; her sister-in-law, Cinda Austin; and many nieces and nephews and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Dorothy-Wallace Thurman, and grandparents.

A memorial service will be held in January at Tryon Presbyterian Church, with details to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Tryon Presbyterian Church, http://www.tryonpresbyterian.org

Condolences to the family can be made to www.sandersfuneralandcremation.com

Sanders Funeral Home 

Columbus