Austin Owens Chafin Jr.'s Obituary
Austin Owens Chafin, Jr., age 80, of Redlands, Florida, passed away peacefully, in his home surrounded by his loving family, friends, and his Pastor Deak Mislow on February 4, 2025. Born on February 21, 1944, Austin “Junior” was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His passion was always his family and friends. Junior made a lasting impact on everyone he encountered. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him, especially those that referred to him as “The Mayor”.
Junior led a life filled with love, laughter, and dedication to his family. He was a man of great integrity, known for his wisdom, kindness, and commitment to those around him. Junior was an ace mechanic working alongside his father, Bo, for many years before transitioning to his career with the Teamsters Union. During his life he moonlighted customizing vehicles earning the name “the Van Man”.
He is survived by his loving wife Geraldine, children Buddy Dale (Barbara), Dean Austin, and Lori Chafin Franklin (Larry Wayne), grandchildren Sarah Marie, Katelyn Marie, Bo Austin, and Austin Wayne, siblings Shelby Jean, Maybelle, Patricia Pringle (Robert), Steven Joseph (Cheryl Lynn) and many loving nieces, nephews, and family friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Austin Owens Chafin, Sr. and Janelle Gunter Chafin, brother’s-in-law Alfred Paul Cyr, Jr., Howard Ernest Knickerbocker, nephew Howard Wayne Knickerbocker, and niece Deborah Ann Knickerbocker.
A celebration of life will be held at Van Orsdel Kendall, (11220 North Kendall Drive, Miami, Florida, 33176) on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 11:30AM (10:30AM for immediate family). Burial thereafter, approximately 2:00PM at Miami Memorial, (6200 Southwest 77th Avenue, Miami, Florida, 33143), followed by a gathering of friends and family at the Chafin Home.
He will always be remembered for his warmth, generosity, sense of humor and will be greatly missed. A beloved soul who touched many lives. Junior’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
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