AREA OBITUARIES - Gertrude Austin

Gertrude Ann Kimbro Austin, 88, of Fulton, Ky., passed away Tuesday night, January 3, 2023 at her home surrounded by family and friends.

She was born May 26, 1934 in Hickman County, Ky., the only child of the late Lewis Kimbro and Marie L. “Monie” Johnson Kimbro. She was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Charles Rayford “Jack” Austin, whom she wed August 31, 1952; and brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Jane Burton of Odessa, Texas.

Living her entire life in Fulton and Hickman County, Ky., Gertrude was a member of Mount Carmel Baptist Church. She was a selfless and loving caregiver to six family members. Each remained in their home until death due to her selfless help. She worked as the Secretary to the Superintendent of the Fulton County Board of Education for over 20 years.

Gertrude and Jack co-owned Austin Farm and Seed Company in Fulton County, Ky.

She leaves behind two daughters, Dr. Ann Marie Austin Ayer (Robert Louis) and Dr. Betty Jacqueline Austin; two grandchildren, Adam Louis Ayer and Elizabeth Ann Ayer Roberts (Dustin Shawn); three great-grandchildren, Jace Louis, Elijah Michael, and Delaney Ann Roberts; two nephews, one niece, and six great nephews and nieces and one great-great niece.

Per Gertrude’s wishes a graveside service will be held at New Rock Spring Cemetery with her grandson, Adam Louis Ayer officiating. Honorary pallbearers are the surviving members of the Central High School Class of 1952 of Hickman County, Ky. The graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., on Friday, January 6, 2023. There will be no visitation and friends are asked to meet at the cemetery at the hour of service.

Hornbeak Funeral Home of Fulton is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that expressions of sympathy take the form of donations to Rock Springs Cemetery Maintenance Fund c/o Marcia Cox, 2267 US Hwy 51, Fulton, KY 42041.