Sally Austin

Sally Austin passed away leaving behind a legacy of resilience, deep community roots, and wholehearted devotion to her family. Born on March 8, 1935, as the second child to Jay and Luva Lyon, Sally grew up in Newport alongside five siblings in a hardworking home supported by her father's career with the railroad. Early in life after the sudden death of her infant son, she proved her strength as a dedicated single mother to four daughters, working full-time to support her girls as well as her younger sister. In the summer of 1963, Sally met Donald Austin—a local barber from North Troy introduced to her simply as a "good boy." Their connection was instant; six months later, on January 25, 1964, they were married. Together, they made their home in North Troy in the very house where Donald was raised, filling it with warmth and love as they raised their four daughters. Sally and Donald shared a life built on purpose, devotion, and community: Tending the Earth: They were passionate gardeners who refused to use chemicals out of care for the bees they raised, living by the belief that every living thing—no matter how small—matters. Creativity & Home: Sally filled her cupboards and freezer with homemade pickles and baked fresh buttermilk donuts every Tuesday while Donald worked their local garbage route. She expressed her artistic spirit through drawing and painting, often capturing the beauty she saw in the world onto smooth rocks. Community Heart: Always involved in local civic life and town meetings, Sally also worked at the local library, reading to children and forming lasting bonds with neighborhood families. In her later years, Sally’s family grew to include the compassionate direct care staff at Newport Healthcare and Maple Lane in Barton, who surrounded her with care. Sally’s kindness, warmth, and enduring spirit leave an indelible mark on all who knew her. Rest in peace—you have earned it.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Saturday October 10, 2026 at North Troy Village Cemetery with Rev. Mary Hoadley officiating. If friends desire memorial contributions in Sally’s name may be made to Feline and Friends Foundation, P.O. Box 10, Barton, VT 05822. Online condolences are welcomed at curtis-britch.com. Arrangements are entrusted to the care of the Curtis-Britch & Bouffard Funeral Home & Cremation Service, locally family owned and operated.