It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Sheila Ann Austen on the 31st of December 2023, at the age of 85. A cherished wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, Sheila’s life was a testament to love, devotion, and enduring family bonds.
Sheila, a loving and devoted wife, shared a beautiful journey through life with her husband, Mal. Their partnership was a source of strength and support, a beacon of love that weathered the trials of time. Their enduring commitment to one another was an inspiration to all who knew them.
As a mother, Sheila was adored by her children and their spouses. Paul and Jenny, Rhonda and Patrick, Lesley, Barry and Linda, and Carol were all recipients of her boundless love and unwavering support. Sheila’s nurturing spirit and caring nature were evident in the close-knit relationships she fostered within her family. Sheila took immense pride in her role as Nan and Big Nan, showering her respective families with affection and warmth.
Her legacy lives on through the memories and values she instilled in each generation. The laughter and joy shared in her presence will forever be cherished by those lucky enough to have called her Nan or Big Nan.
In addition to her immediate family, Sheila shared a special bond with her sister, Sue, and brother-in-law, Terry. Their connection was a testament to the importance of family ties, and Sheila’s warmth extended beyond her immediate household. The Austen family extends an invitation to all family and friends to join in commemorating Sheila’s life at her funeral on the 8th of January 2024.
The service will take place at 9:30 am at the East Chapel of The Rockhampton Crematorium, providing an opportunity for those who knew and loved Sheila to come together, share memories, and find solace in each other’s company.
As we bid farewell to Sheila, let us remember her for the love she shared, the joy she brought, and the indelible mark she left on the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. May her soul rest in eternal peace, and may her memory be a source of comfort and inspiration for the Austen family and all who mourn her passing.
