Carolyn Bernice Austin, lovingly known as “Cal,” peacefully received her wings on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at the age of 51 at UnityPoint Health – Allen Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa. A devoted daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, Carolyn’s life was a beautiful reflection of love, faith, and service. Her radiant smile, generous spirit, and deep compassion touched all who knew her.
Born on January 30, 1974, at St. Francis Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa, Carolyn was the youngest child of Joe Curtis Austin and the late Bernice (Blue) Austin. She was named in honor of her mother and raised in a loving, close-knit family that nurtured her strong values and enduring faith.
At an early age, Carolyn accepted Christ and was baptized at Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, where she actively participated in the Sunbeam Choir, the Usher Board, and the Red Circle Girls. Later, her family joined Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church, where she continued her service in the choir, Sunday School, and other ministries. She later became a member of the Gift of Life Church family and remained deeply rooted in her spiritual walk throughout her life.
Carolyn graduated from Waterloo West High School in 1992 and went on to attend Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa, earning a scholarship and proudly completing her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration on December 31, 1996. Driven by a heart to serve others, she joined the AmeriCorps Network serving in Perry Point, Maryland.
After the passing of her mother in 2005, Carolyn relocated to Huntsville, Alabama, where she lived for 15 years. There, she worked in hospitality and customer service and was a faithful member of Eagles Nest Ministries. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Carolyn returned to her hometown of Waterloo, where she reconnected with her roots and continued her mission of love and service.
Carolyn found joy in singing gospel music and using her voice to praise the Lord. She was a proud member of the Jesse Cosby Community Choir and remained active in faith communities, including Hope City Church. She volunteered regularly with the Jubilee UMC Resource Center, home of LeChristopher’s Southern Cuisine, and was passionate about outreach and small group ministry.
A lifelong learner and community builder, Carolyn graduated from the Momentum Term One Program at One City United and completed several courses through the Love INC initiative between 2021 and 2024. She also worked as a service driver for Witham Auto Center from 2021 to 2023. She was also a part of the greeters and usher board ministry at ICH.
Carolyn will be remembered for her joy of good foods, love of keepsakes, and her heart of gold. She was a woman who gave selflessly, loved deeply, and made everyone feel seen and valued. Her laughter, her hugs, and her unwavering kindness leave a legacy that will not be forgotten.
She is survived by her father, Joe Curtis Austin; siblings Joseph Austin Jr., William Austin, Marilyn Austin, and Tina Austin, all of Waterloo, IA; her niece Marquia Janay Tennant-Austin; great-nieces Jhea’Quia Anay Sallis and Makaria Jamae Sallis of Nevada, IA; nephews Dominique Austin, Bryce Austin, and JoMar Ryan Austin; and great-nephews Kaylon Austin and Zayden Austin, all of Waterloo, Ia. She is also lovingly remembered by her honorary big brother, Gerry Williams and honorary nephew, Eugene Lee Barney, and a host of devoted aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Bernice (Blue) Austin; her maternal grandparents, Joel and Cora Lee (Downer) Blue; paternal grandparents, James Riley and Mary (Durham) Austin; and her cherished great-nephew, Makarios Jamyi Sallis.
All obituary information has been taken from the funeral home, newspaper or other online resource.
Share