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Mr.James"Billy"Austin was born April 9, 1941 in Dawson, Georgia to the late Johnny and Mrs. Gertrude Austin.

James retired from the city of Largo as a heavy equipment operator after several years of service. He was a member of the St. Mary Missionary Baptist Church, where he sung in the Male Chorus and was the chairman of the Brotherhood Saturday morning Breakfast club. He was one of the founding members of the Original Florida All Stars Gospel quartet group, where he sing high soprano. During this time, he was able to sing on the recording of their #1 hit "One More River to Cross." Which is played every Sunday morning on WTAN. This recording took the group on the road all over the United States. It was then James saw the opportunity to organize a Sunday morning Gospel Radio show on WTAN 1340, in which he broadcaston for over 40 years.

As the years progressed and many of the members of the Original Florida All Starsbegin to face health challenges. Unableto travel much, James had a vision to form the New Florida All Stars Gospel Group which consisted of a group of young men in whom he saw their potential when others didn't. Jamesserved as the founder and manager of this group for over 26 years .

Because James always wanted to be busy doing the work of the Lord, he helped form the 5th Sunday Tampa Bay Quartet Union which meet in several locations every 5th Sunday. "Billy" as he was affectionately called by all that knew him,was known as aOutdoorsman, whom had great passion and skill for fishing.

On June 16, 2019, God in his infinite wisdom saw fit to grant Mr. James "Billy" Austin rest from his earthly labor. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Theresa Littles; four brothers; and a sister. With many years of fond memories, including 56 years of marriage, his legacy lives on through his loving wife, Mrs. Larene Austin; two sons; seven daughters; a brother; three sisters; a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and other relativesand friends.