Obituary of Candace Cecilia Austin

In Loving Memory of a Remarkable Woman Candace “Candi” Austin, a beloved mother, daughter, grandmother, aunt and friend, departed this world on August 21, 2023. She was born on October 28, 1957, in the vibrant city of Philadelphia to her parents, Doris Lacey Irvin and Otis Irvin. Candace's journey through life was one filled with adventure, service, and a deep love for her family and loved ones. Growing up in the close-knit community of East Falls, Candace cherished her childhood days spent playing with neighborhood friends and bonding with her family. Her early years, marked by the joy of exploration, and the beaches were often her family's preferred destination, where endless memories were created under the sun and by the water. At the age of 25, Candace made a life-altering decision to join the United States Army in 1983. She embarked on a journey of service, dedicating herself to her country with unwavering commitment. During her years in the military, she had the honor of serving in Frankfurt, Germany, and Fort Campbell. Candace's determination and courage led her to train as a paratrooper, exemplifying her resilience and bravery. After her honorable discharge from the military in 1987, Candace pursued higher education, earning her associate degree in accounting. She then embarked on a successful career, contributing her talents to esteemed organizations such as the United States Mint, AmeriGas, and Lockheed Martin. Her dedication and work ethic left an indelible mark on her professional journey, earning her the respect and admiration of colleagues and peers. Candace cherished life's simple pleasures. She loved her pets and fish. She had a passion for shopping and traveling, where she indulged in new experiences and created lasting memories. Trying out new chocolate wines with her longtime Girlfriends! Candace saw the world, shared that love of travel and culture with her closest friends, and loved ones. However, her greatest source of joy was spending quality time with her son Troy and her grandchildren, family and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband Jonathan Austin, mother and father Otis and Doris Irvin and brother Bryce Thane Irvin. She leaves to cherish her many memories her son Troy Irvin; sisters: Twila Williams and Sharleen Daye; grandchildren: Tory, Bryce, Gianna and Rain; sisters-in-law: Uris (Jill) Batchler, Syble Johnson, Wanda Scott, Sherril Austin, Regina Austin, Deloris Austin & Kydia Bond; brothers-in-law: Darrell Williams, Jerry Batchler, Arthur Austin and Calvin Austin; Longtime friend and companion Bruce Square and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends. Their enduring love and shared memories will keep Candace's spirit alive in the hearts of her family for generations to come. Candace’s kindness, strength, and unwavering devotion to those she held dear will be remembered. Her legacy will continue to inspire us all, reminding us to embrace life's adventures, to serve with honor, and to cherish the bonds of family and friendship. In celebrating her life, let us not mourn her passing but instead, let us rejoice in the beautiful soul that Candace was and the love she shared with us. We will forever hold her in our hearts, and her memory will be a beacon of light in our lives. May her soul rest in eternal peace.