After attending Washington High School, he married Gloria Wallace, and to this union
three children were born.
He later married Donna Cummins Burrus in 1985, thereby becoming stepfather to her two children. Austin was well known for his generosity. You could say, “He was a man with a giving hand”. He’d be seen helping family, coworkers and friends in their time of need.
He was afforded these giving opportunities as his blue-collar career began to soar as a meat processor at Stark & Wetzel. Later he joined the automotive industry at Rolls Royce as a Special Processing Plater.
Austin was a remarkable individual who found immense joy in three passions: his love for special breeds of dogs, his unwavering devotion to music, and his love for cars.
Austin had a love of special breeds, whether it was the uniqueness of his two white German Shepherds, or the shiny coats of the slender Doberman Pinchers. He cherished every moment spent with his four-legged friends. It was not just the wagging tails that brought joy to Austin’s life, but music was the
rhythm that echoed through his soul. An avid music lover, he found solace, inspiration and peace within the melodies that resonated within his heart. His wife Donna ensured that his favorite songs played day and night. His passion for music was infectious and he often shared his favorite compositions with friends and family, creating unforgettable moments of harmony and togetherness.
Austin also had a love for cars. So much so that at times he would hide a few of his purchases until the time was right for the reveal. Donna would look out of the kitchen window of their house and see another car and would often say, “Austin, our backyard looks like a used car lot!”
When Austin’s health started to decline, his Grandson Gavin was determined to be a witness for Christ to his Paw Paw. At his bedside, Gavin was found quoting scriptures and asking questions as it related to Austin’s salvation. So, rest assured Gavin said I will see my Paw Paw again.
Austin was preceded in death by his brother, the Artist Extraordinaire, George “Moe” Murff, and his parents.
He is survived by his loving wife Donna of thirty-eight years. The two enjoyed traveling to area jazz festivals with close friends and annual Easter trips to Birmingham for family visits. Other survivors are his three children: Anthony D. Murff, Kimberly Murff Tyson, Glenn Murff (Tracey) and his two stepchildren
Kevin Burrus (Tamica) and Lisa Burrus. Austin’s quiver was filled with nine grandchildren, Anthony Murff Jr., Ashley Murff, Amber Curry, Kristmas Murff, Jaylen Lloyd, Andrese Murff and Gavin Murff, Elijah Shepherd and Maloniyah Shepherd, along with seven great-grandchildren. His four sisters, Gladys “Cookie” Johnson (81), Lurlean “Skipper” Bertram (79), Wanda “Bonnie” Myles (76), and Patricia “P.A.” Thomas (74) have maintained a life-long, loving relationship with their brother. Austin’s nieces,
nephews, cousins, and friends were equally as important to him.
Austin’s departure on the 24th of October, left both a longing and a legacy. He will be missed beyond measure. We are grateful for what he meant to us, both individually and as a family, collectively.
We bid you Grace and Peace.
Austin might say, in agreeance with one of his favorite songs by the renowned
artist Sade, Hang on to Your Love…
Gotta Stick Together
Hand in glove
Hold tight, don’t fight
Hang on to your love
A visitation for Austin will be held Saturday, November 4, 2023 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Crown Hill Funeral Home & Cemetery, 700 W. 38th St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46208, followed by a celebration of life at 12:00 PM.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.crownhill.org for the Murff family.
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