Lottie Marie Austin

Lottie Marie Bradley Austin, 91, of Poplar Bluff, MO, passed away Monday, December 08, 2014, at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center.

Mrs. Austin was born September 30, 1923 in Poplar Bluff, to the late Harry and Lydia Leach Bradley. In 1948, she was married to Pelham Austin, Jr. of Peach Orchard, Ark. He preceded her in death on April 24, 1976.

She was a Christian who attended both Baptist and Methodist churches in her lifetime. Mrs. Austin retired from the Poplar Bluff School System as an elementary school teacher. She served with WAVES during the 1940's with the United States Navy. She enjoyed spending time with her family, swimming, reading, painting, gardening and enjoying nature.

Mrs. Austin attended Arkansas State University in Jonesboro and received her bachelor's degree from Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia. She received additional training from the University of Minnesota-Duluth and Southeast Missouri University in Cape Girardeau.

Survivors include her children: Randy Austin (Janet) of Springfield, MO, Elaine Bartee (Neale) of Jonesboro, AR, and Sylvia Heustess (Marty), of Forrest City, AR; a son-in-law, Doug Ward, of Poplar Bluff; a sister: Anna Kay Bradley, of St. Louis; grandchildren: Jill Norman, Kristen Musenger, and Bradley Ward; and great grandchildren: Lucie and Lennon Musenger.

Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter Melanie Ward, and ten brothers and sisters.

Visitation will be from 1-2 p.m. Thursday, with funeral services beginning at 2 p.m. at Cotrell Funeral Chapel with Rev. David Stewart officiating. Interment will follow at City Cemetery.

The family would like to give special thanks to friend and caregiver Mary Peters of Poplar Bluff for her love and compassion.