Charles Ray Austin Jr.

Charles Ray Austin, Jr. passed away Monday, October 31st at the age of 65 at INOVA Fairfax Hospital after a brief illness. He was born in Brownsville, Pennsylvania September 26, 1957, son of Charles Ray and Elizabeth Jane (Horvath) Austin. Charlie graduated from Bethlehem Center High School class of 1975. He worked in the coal mine for 10 years while attending tech school, earning a degree in Electronics. In 1987, he became employed with IBM and relocated to Manassas, Virginia. Making it through the buy-outs of Loral, Lockheed Martin, and BAE Systems, he ends this life with 35 years of service. Charlie was a percussionist in his high school band and was able to share his passion of music with his daughter (Kibby) and grandson (Levi). He was Levi’s #1 fan and attended many music events and home football games to watch him march. He was one proud Pap! Charlie was dedicated to his work family, as well, and was the expert in vibration, thermal and thermal vacuum systems required to test space products. He constantly popped into work to make sure his team was successful and delivered their product right first time, because he knew there wasn’t room for failure. In Charlie’s spare time, he had many projects. Whether it was woodworking, laying down flooring, working on the AC or on his vehicle, he was always tinkering because he never stopped. As a member of the American Legion and H.O.G., he volunteered numerous hours and has ridden his Harley in several parades. Being from the Pittsburgh area, he was a die-hard sports fan. Go STEELERS! He was a man with a wealth of knowledge and was respected by many. Charlie was a well-loved man with countless friends. He will be sorely missed by all. Charlie is survived by his brother Robert Austin, sister Melanie Austin, daughter Kibby (Elizabeth) Austin and grandson Levi Pardy, daughter Jenifer Mayes and family, Chris, Lily and Max. He is predeceased by his parents and his sister, Shelly Moore (Austin). All service arrangements will take place at Pierce Funeral Home 9609 Center Street, Manassas, VA. Visitation hours will be Monday, November 14th from 6 to 8 p.m., November 15th from 10 to 11 a.m., followed by a funeral service November 15th at 11 a.m. A reception will take place at American Legion Post 10, 9950 Cockrell Road, Manassas, VA. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in the name of Charlie Austin to American Legion Post 10, 9950 Cockrell Road, Manassas, VA.

Charles Ray Austin Jr.

September 26, 1957 - October 31, 2022