Born on September 29, 1982, in Mobile, Alabama, she later relocated to Pensacola, Florida, during her early childhood. A 2001 graduate of Pensacola Catholic High School, Katy played soccer at Springhill College for one semester before deciding to pursue a career in massage therapy and esthetics. Katy provided massage and skin care services in day spas around Mobile for many years prior to opening the Porehouse in 2012, which she operated until she retired in 2022.
Katy had an infectious personality. Her quick wit and humor could only be matched by the best comedians. An amazing conversationalist, Katy devoted herself to researching topics for clients as well as her for personal enrichment. She was a fast talker and always had a story to tell. Many of Katy’s clients became life-long friends. Spending time with Katy is what her clients came for, getting the service was a bonus.
Her beauty, being only second to her compassion. Katy rescued dozens of dogs and facilitated finding them the perfect home. Katy married Brian Austin on March 16, 2012, and they continued her passion of helping stray animals. Coal, Lucy, Cash, Murphy, and Stella were loved and a special part of the family prior to each of their deaths.
Katy is survived by her husband, Brian H. Austin, and two dogs Ashland and Sunny, Mobile, Alabama; parents, Trinka LaCrosse of Pensacola, Florida and Randall Gilstrap of Robertsdale, Alabama. Her in-laws, Jimmy and Susie Austin of McCarley, Mississippi. She is preceded in death by her, James and Sally LaCrosse of Pensacola, Florida and Joseph and Wynona Gilstrap of Gulf Breeze, Florida.
A celebration of Katy’s life will be held at Radney Funeral Home on Dauphin Street on October 19th beginning at 1pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF) in Mobile or the Mobile SPCA.
