Alice "Dot" Jean Austin

Alice Jean Austin, affectionately known as "Dot", age 91, departed this world on February 20, 2024, at E.T. York Care Center in Gainesville, FL. She was a cherished wife, devoted mother, proud grandmother, and beloved friend to many. She was born on December 21, 1932, in Lennox, GA, to the late Leonard and Margaret Fender.  Dot led a fulfilling career as an LPN until 1978, when she retired from nursing to dedicate herself to supporting her husband in his business endeavors.

Dot's presence brought light and joy wherever she went. Her firecracker of a personality was a testament to her lively and spirited nature. Her passions included singing in the church choir with her remarkable alto voice, playing the guitar, nurturing her garden, creating delicious meals in the kitchen, and most of all, spending cherished moments with her family. 

She leaves behind her adoring husband of 62 years, Jerry Austin of Gainesville; her children: Patricia O'Steen of Fruitland Park, FL; Stephen Kitchens of Fairbanks, FL; Kenneth "Kenny" (Cindy) Kitchens of Graham, FL; Leonard "Randy" (Jeanne) Kitchens of Lake City, FL; grandchildren: Dana (Dale) Seymour; Josh O'Steen; Stephanie Kitchens (Tommy) Hylton; Ryan Kitchens; Naomi (Randy) Tomlinson; Desiree (Doug) Steinbach; Kyle Kitchens; as well as great-grandchildren: Alex Seymour; Joshua G. O'Steen; Madison (Myles) Diaz; Remi Steinbach; Hannah Tomlinson; Adah Tomlinson; Brantley Folds; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents Leonard R. and Margaret Fender; siblings: Lonnie, Wallace, George, Effie, Muriel, Ruth, and Gene Fender; her son, Richard Olen, and her granddaughter, Rachel O'Steen.

A service for Dot will be held on Tuesday, February 27th at the North Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Alachua, FL. A visitation will begin at 10:00am followed by a funeral service at 11:00am. She will be laid to rest at the church cemetery. Pastor Rick Chandler will officiate the services. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com