William Austin Redding

William Austin Redding, 81, of Bay Saint Louis, MS passed away on July 4th, 2024, after complications from follicular lymphoma. He was born to the late Joseph Monroe and Lucille Trehern Redding on August 24, 1942, in Gulfport, MS. He attended school and graduated from Gulfport High School. Later he attended technician school in Chicago, served in the National Guard and went to work for Sears and Roebuck in the service department. He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Redding, his sister, Bobbi Woodyard, and his brother, Joseph “Bunsie” Redding.

He is survived by his son, William Jeffry Redding, his wife Alecia, and their children, William Isaac, Trystan, Alyza, and Vivienne; also his daughters, Angela Beavers Redding and Lisa Magarah Carpenter and their daughters, Jodie Beavers, Julia McGarah, and Jeanie Faye Woods.

Austin was loved by many and will be remembered as a bit of a character with many stories to tell and a deep appreciation of a good Harley motorcycle. He made his home with family and friends in the Bay Saint Louis area. His extended family included Terry McQueen, David and Monty Strong, all of Bay Saint Louis, his cousin Dr. Evelyn Redding of Pass Christian and his favorite niece, Donna Woodyard Heath of Pass Christian.

He worked for Sears and Roebuck for nearly 40 years and retired from that career. He enoyed his work friend group and made lifelong friendships with his “Breakfast Bunch” and Sears Lunch Buddies. He spent many years with camping friends as well.

Austin will be missed by his family and friends greatly. His son and family take great comfort in having been able to spend time with him and care for him for the past 2 years in their home in Olive Branch, MS

A graveside service will be held at Cedar Rest Cemetery in Bay Saint Louis and his remains will be interred with his dear wife, Barbara on Friday, July 26th, 2024, at 10am. A memorial service will also be held at Immanuel Baptist Church in Olive Branch, MS on Saturday, July 27th, 2024, at 10am.