Obituaries – Their Stories Live On

Presiding Bishop Michael Dean Austin, Sr. transitioned to Glory on May 26, 2022, He was born on August 28,1956, and raised by the late Mr. Edward, Sr, and Mrs. Viola Austin of Fireco, WV.

Michael graduated from Independence High School in 1973 and thereafter attended West Virginia University on a football scholarship. After God filled Michael with the holy spirit, he traded in the football for the Holy Bible and transferred to Concord University, where he pursued and received his degree in Business Administration. Throughout his career in business, Michael demonstrated extraordinary work ethic, professionalism, and leadership - seamlessly navigating the world of business within various companies and not-for-profit organizations.

Michael served as Senior Pastor of the Church of God Militant Pillar and Ground of Truth Ministries in Charleston for over 29 years, selflessly laboring alongside his wife, First Lady Mattie Austin. Additionally, Michael held the position of Presiding Bishop of the Church of God Militant Pillar and Ground of Truth National Organization, where he jointly led with his Executive Board Committee members.

Michael was united in holy matrimony to his beloved Mattie Austin on February 14, 1982. Their union was blessed with five children: Michael I, Stephen, Genel, Matthew, and Jonathan; four daughters-in-love: Nakia, Jessica, Charla, and Tawonna; grandchildren: Samuel, Michael Ill, Carter, Alexandria, Jasmine, Triniti, Jada, and Jael; and a host of nephews, nieces, and godchildren.

in addition to his parents, Michael was preceded in death by his dear wife, Mattie Antoinette Austin; brothers, Mr. Edward, Jr, and Mr. Aaron and sister, Ms. Maureen of Maryland.

Michael is survived by his five children; brothers, Mr. Orlando (Donna) of VA, Mr. Kenneth (Saundra) of MD, Mr. Marion, Sr. and Mr. Fredrick (Laverne), both of Beckley, WV, and Mr. Danny of MD; sisters, Ms. Lenora of AR, Ms. Brenda and Ms. Annette, both of Beckley, WV, Ms. Barbara and Mrs. Lucille (Jessie), both of OH.

Presiding Bishop Austin was a kingdom warrior; a faithful husband, an intentional father, a playful grandfather, and an admired Pastor, Although Bishop/Dad/Pops/Poppy had a multitude of natural and spiritual sons and daughters - he had a special way of making you feel like his favorite. Bishop truly embodied the spirit of Job; despite being challenged at every turn in his life, his faith and trust in God never wavered “though he slay me, yet will I trust in him” Bishop’s roaring laugh, loving spirit, and gentle presence will be missed by all who knew him.

We take comfort in knowing the impact he had on every person he met, will always remain. His legacy of faith, strength, and humility will transcend generations to come through his children, grandchildren, and church family. Michael has finished his race - refined by fire and emerged pure as gold. He lived his life before his family and the world to ensure he would hear, & “Well done! As a faithful servant, he has put on his heavenly garment and entered eternal rest with his beloved wife, Mattie Antoinette Austin.

He lived his life not to be remembered, but to be missed - and we already miss him greatly.

A celebration of life will be held at 12pm on Friday, June 3, 2022, at Maranatha Fellowship Church of St. Albans, WV 2910 Kanawha Terrace with Bishop Gary Cooper, Sr. officiating. Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Park, So. Charleston.

A special viewing will be held for family and friends one hour prior to the service.

Email condolences to ritchiejohnsonfuneralparlor@gmail.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Ritchie & Johnson Funeral Parlor, Beckley.