Obituary

Rev. Marvin "Skeeter" Austin, Jr.

August 8, 1979 — June 26, 2026

Rev. Marvin C. “Skeeter” Austin Jr. transitioned from his earthly life to his eternal home in glory at the age of 46, following complications from a quadruple heart surgery. Born to the late Mrs. Annetta Lorraine Austin and Mr. Marvin Austin Sr., Skeeter lived a life marked by resilience, loyalty, quiet courage, and a spirit that remained kind even in the face of hardship.

Skeeter was known for his warm smile—a smile he carried no matter what he was going through. He never complained, never burdened others, and always found a way to uplift the people around him. His strength was quiet, steady, and deeply felt by everyone who knew him.

Skeeter's faith journey began at an early age when he gave his life to Christ and was raised in New Triumph Baptist Church. It was there that he received his spiritual foundation, learning the values of faith, service, and devotion to God that would guide him throughout his life.

As he grew in his walk with Christ, he later united with Bethlehem Baptist Church, where he continued to mature spiritually and faithfully served the congregation. In 2008, Skeeter answered God's call into the ministry and began his work as a young minister at Bethlehem. His commitment to sharing God's Word and encouraging others reflected the sincerity of his faith and his desire to help people draw closer to Christ.

Later, Marvin united with Community Church of Slidell under the leadership of Rev. Nathan Young. There, he became a faithful and devoted member, serving in numerous ministries with joy, passion, and an unwavering love for God and people. Whether serving on the Prayer Team, ministering to children and students, participating in Men's Discipleship, or hosting small groups, Marvin dedicated himself wholeheartedly to serving others and advancing the Kingdom of God.

Marvin possessed a servant's heart that knew no limits. He faithfully encouraged, prayed for, and supported those around him, often checking on others and offering words of comfort and inspiration. His presence was felt throughout the church community, where he was known for his compassion, faithfulness, and genuine care for people.

He especially loved working with young people. Whether shooting basketball, racing students, sharing words of encouragement, or bringing smiles to children's faces by portraying Santa Claus at Christmas and the Easter Bunny during holiday celebrations, Marvin found great joy in helping others feel loved and valued.

His commitment to serving extended far beyond the church walls. When he learned that local children needed coaches, he willingly stepped in to serve as a little league football coach, investing his time and energy into the lives of young athletes. His concern for others was constant and sincere. Even during challenging seasons in his own life, Marvin never stopped looking for ways to help those in need, often sharing his resources and serving the homeless with kindness and generosity.

Marvin truly lived by the words of Christ, believing that every day was an opportunity to serve, love, and make a difference in the lives of others. Though it is impossible to fully recount every ministry he embraced or every life he touched, those who knew him can testify that he lived a life marked by selflessness, compassion, and faith in action.

Throughout his life, Marvin's ministry was not defined by titles or positions, but by the love, humility, and kindness he extended to everyone he encountered. His walk with God was evident in his quiet strength, unwavering faith, and genuine concern for others. His legacy of service, love, and devotion to Christ will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

He shared a devoted and loving bond with his fiancée, Nequnette Lane, with whom he was scheduled to wed this July. Their relationship was filled with partnership, joy, and unwavering commitment. He also leaves behind Aniyah Lane, whom he cherished deeply and embraced as his own family.

Skeeter was a proud father to his sons, Jaylen Brickmore and Matthew Austin, whom he shared with his former wife, Jennifer Gordon. His children were his pride and greatest joy.

He adored his niece and nephews — Abigail Austin, Asher Austin, Andrew “Drew” Austin, and Aaron Austin — the children of his brother Bradley and Shonnie. Though they are young, Skeeter loved them with a gentle, playful affection. He showed up for them, made them laugh, and held a special place in their hearts.

Skeeter also shared lifelong brotherhoods with his closest friends: Dewayne Sampson, Dejuan Short, Leonard “Bam” Toussaint, and Rev. Donric Mark. These men were more than friends; they were family, bonded by years of loyalty, laughter, and shared experiences.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Mrs. Annetta Lorraine Austin; his maternal grandparents, Lillie Mae Curtis, and Willie J. Lundy; maternal great grandparents Martha Ann Dillon, Jerome Lundy and Christine Dillon Lundy; his paternal grandparents, Anna Lee Allen Austin and Oliver Leroy Austin; his paternal great grandparents, Ervin and Pearl Brown Allen; his paternal great-great grandparents, Esau and Dorcas Hayes Brown, Comer and Flora Austin — along with other beloved family members who went before him.

Skeeter leaves behind his father, Marvin Austin Sr.; his fiancée, Nequnette; and his three children: Jaylen Brickmore, Matthew Austin, and Aniyah. He also leaves behind his brother, Bradley T. Austin (Shondarion); his niece, Abigail Austin; his nephews, Asher Austin, Andrew Austin, and Aaron Austin; his uncles, Donnie Curtis (Carrie Lee), Lindberg Lundy, and Daron Lundy; his aunts, Crystal Lundy Genoria Lundy and Andrea Jackson; and a host of cousins who loved him and will cherish his memories — including his maternal first cousins Shaneika McGowan (Kevin) and Keith Merrill.

He further leaves behind cousins, Sydney Ewing, Je’nequa Thomas, and Je’nequa’s children: Aniya Robinson, LaDarrious Robinson, Kyla Thomas, and Cruz Thomas.

He also leaves behind the extended family his mother cherished — including his spiritual mother Ms. Dora Jones; the Stallings family and many relatives and loved ones who were part of the Austin and Lundy family legacy.

Skeeter’s life was a testament to perseverance, humility, and love. He faced challenges with grace, met people with kindness, and lived with a heart that never stopped giving. Though he has departed from this earthly life, his legacy — of laughter, loyalty, faith, and compassion — will forever live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who knew him.

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." — Matthew 25:23

A visitation will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026 from 5:00PM – 7:00PM at Crain and Sons Funeral Home.

Funeral service will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026 at 1:00PM at Bethlehem Baptist Church with Rev. Christopher Matthews – Pastor, Rev. Nathan Young – Eulogist. Interment will be held at the Bogalusa Cemetery. 

Crain and Sons Funeral Home – Bogalusa are in charge of arrangements.