Karen Ann Austin

Karen Ann Casler Austin was born in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania on November 13, 1944, to James Chandler and Edna Louise Henderson. Karen was adopted, as a newborn, by her great aunt, Serine Vivian Casler. She grew up in Ypsilanti, Michigan with the guidance and love of Great Aunt Serine.

Karen attended Ypsilanti Public Schools. After her high school graduation, she attended the Mary Hall Beauty Academy de Coiffure, in Detroit, Michigan. When Karen moved to Texas, she decided to make a career change and study business. Karen attended St. Phillips College in San Antonio, Texas and Central Texas College in Killeen, Texas.

In her sophomore year of high school, Karen met a young man, named Jospeh Lewis Austin, Sr. He became a good friend and later her husband. Joseph joined the U.S. Army and Karen was right by his side. For 24 years, Joseph’s military career took them and their two children, across the United States and on several overseas tours of duty. Although the family experienced many military moves, a major portion of Joseph’s military career was in Texas. Karen and Joe decided to make San Antonio their permanent home.

Karen and Joe joined Cornerstone Church and became faithful members of the choir. She sang to the glory of God for 30 years. She was also one of the 19 visionaries who started the Harmony Belles Choir, of San Antonio, in September 2018.

Karen was an avid crafter and learned to make jewelry for herself, family and friends. She also loved making ceramics for everyone. “Go Spurs Go” was Karen’s quiet salute to her favorite basketball team – The Spurs!

Karen always had a nurturing presence and calm disposition. She had a gentle manner and was always soft-spoken. Karen extended her caring spirit and warmth to everyone she met. Karen Ann Casler Austin’s eternal light will shine forever!

Karen is preceded in death by her parents James Chandler and Edna Louise Henderson and her Great Aunt Serine Casler. Karen leaves to cherish her memory: her loving husband, Jospeh; son Joseph Lewis Austin II; daughter Karen “Andrea” Austin; three grandchildren – Tiffany Shaunte, Dayton Andre, and Dawson Alexander; and one great grandson, Ovie Anthony; and two goddaughters -Keisha J Green and Ashley Erin Mitchell. Karen is from a large family, and they all have been special to her: Aunt Mary Rose Johnson, the Casler- Henderson, Chandler families, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.