OCRACOKE — Rudy Leroy Austin, a cherished native son of Ocracoke, North Carolina, was born on February 3, 1942, and peacefully passed away on April 17, 2025, at the age of 83.
Rudy’s life was a testament to dedication, service, and love for his community. He graduated from Ocracoke School in 1961 before serving his country with honor in the United States Air Force as an Airman 3rd Class from 1961 to 1965. Following his military service, Rudy worked off-island before joining the North Carolina Department of Transportation Ferry Division, where he faithfully navigated the Ocracoke/Hatteras ferry as a captain for 30 years.
Rudy was a true working waterman. He spent his life on the water. He fished pound nets, pulled crab pots, and shared his passion for island history and politics with both locals and visitors as he ferried them to and from his beloved Portsmouth Island.
Rudy’s commitment to his community was further reflected in his active participation in various organizations and associations. He was a proud member of the Mounted Boy Scout Troop 290, Tideland Electric Membership Corp., the Masonic Lodge, the Ocracoke Civic and Business Association, the Ocracoke Foundation, Friends of Portsmouth Island, and the Ocracoke Waterways Commission. His contributions were deep and wide and recognized by the Ocracoke School Alumni Association Citizenship Award, the Ocracoke Preservation Society Cultural Heritage Award, and the Ocracoke School Community Service Award.
Rudy was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Marion Forbes Austin and Junius Perry Austin.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Patricia Gibbs Austin; his children, Rudy Wade Austin (Gwen) and Lena Austin O’Neal (Mark); his treasured grandchildren, Sydney Elizabeth Austin, Colby Todd Austin, Hayden Bryce Austin, Maren Grace Donlon, and Paxton Fowler O’Neal; and his siblings, June Yvette Herring (Ray) and Donald Dwayne Austin (Cindy).
A celebration of Rudy’s life will be held at the Ocracoke United Methodist Church on Monday, May 12, 2025, at 1:00 pm. The family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Ocracoke Civic & Business Association-Island Christmas Decorations, PO Box 456, Ocracoke, NC 27960 or The Friends of Portsmouth Island-Restoration of Henry Pigott’s House, PO Box 2303, Morehead City, NC 28557, ensuring Rudy’s legacy of service and community support continues on.
Rudy Leroy Austin’s life was one marked by steadfast service, unwavering dedication, and a profound love for his community, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege to know him.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.
