Austin Ernest Nixon

Austin Ernest Nixon, 86, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 24, 2025 at home with his family by his side. A celebration of life service will take place at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home on Monday, April 28, 2025 at 1 p.m. Austin was born on March 5, 1939 in Ochlocknee, Georgia to Charlie Dawson Nixon and Estelle Gertrude Owens. He started his career with Frosty Morn Meats in Panama City, FL where he climbed the ladder taking him to Quincy, FL and Clarksville, TN. Austin decided to change from the meat industry to the pecan industry in 1972. He spent over 40 years in the pecan industry and was known for his dedication to clients, co-workers and community. Austin was a former vice-president of Young Pecan Shelling Company and retired general manager from Navarro Pecan Company. He enjoyed spending time with his family, working in the yard, family vacations, and volunteering at his church. Austin was longtime member of St. John’s Episcopal Church. He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, JoAnne J. Nixon; daughters, Karen McLeod (Hendley) of Perry, GA; Allie Riley (Chris) of Corsicana, TX; Emily Dever (Dan) of Corsicana, TX; Susan Southerland of Corsicana, TX; sons, Joe Southerland (Kimberly) of Canton, GA; John Southerland (Michelle) of Gainesville, FL; Brandon Johnson of Tulsa, OK; grandchildren, Erin McLeod, Megan Southerland, Kaylee Southerland, Morrigan Lucas, Jake Southerland, Kylie Southerland, Joey Dever, Wes Weger, Ella Dever, Sam Dever, Bryson Nixon, and Emma Jo Riley; great-grandchild, Hadrian Jempson; brothers, Dawson Nixon (Barbara) of Woodstock, GA; Glynn Nixon of Cairo, GA; sister Charlie Finney of Albany, GA. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie Dawson Nixon and Estelle Gertrude Owens; brothers, Clifton “Brother” Nixon; Edwin E. “Buster’ Nixon; sisters, Dora Belle Howell; Opal Grooms; Sarah Fletcher; son, Richard Ernest Nixon; daughters, Jennifer Lorraine Nixon; Mary Christa Southerland; and grand-daughter, Julie Anna Weger. Austin wore many hats and went by many names. He was often called Buddy as much if not more than being called Dad. Austin will be remembered for his kindness, unwavering integrity, and love for his family. His “little sayings” and his smile were gifts to everyone who knew him. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Jude Hospital. Friends and family are invited to Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home on Monday, April 28, 2025 at 1 p.m. Graveside service will follow at Oakwood Cemetery. A webcast of the service can be viewed at the following link: http://webcast.funeralvue.com/events/viewer/112080

Austin Ernest Nixon

March 5, 1939 - April 24, 2025