On Thursday, August 13, 2026, Hunter Tweedy Austin Sr. passed away peacefully after 78 years of life on God’s earth. Hunter was surrounded by his loving and devoted wife, family, friends, and his pastor, as he transitioned to Heaven. It was clear that Hunter knew his family circle had gathered to say goodbye and to surround him with love.

Even after being diagnosed with Stage IV cancer and knowing he was not at his best, Hunter traveled to Montreal to attend his grandchild’s baptism. That was his priority, and he was deeply thankful to God for the blessing of medical mercies that allowed him to make the journey.

Hunter was a dedicated servant of God throughout his life. He shared his love of Jesus and his faith with family and friends. For Hunter, faith was deeply personal. He spent many hours each day in prayer and in conversation with Jesus.

Hunter was born on October 26, 1948, in Lynchburg, Virginia, and was raised in Dorchester, MA. He was the son of the late Alonzo Marion Austin and Ardelia Mae Tweedy Austin.

He attended middle school and high school in Boston. He later pursued his education at Computer Processing Institute (CPI) and Northeastern University, earning certificates in Computer Programming, Web Master Design, and Realty Sales. He continued his education at the University of Massachusetts, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics with a minor in Business Management.

During his young adult years, Hunter met the love of his life, Mattie and became a loving presence in the life of her daughter, Cookie. They married in 1972 and were blessed with one incredible son, Hunter Jr.

Prior to his college years, Hunter joined the United States Coast Guard, where he was appointed to the rank of BM3. He was later transferred to the Coast Guard Group Woods Hole in Massachusetts. Hunter was proud of his military service and accomplishments, which included receiving the National Defense Service Medal and the Antarctica Service Medal.

Hunter loved his family circle and friends unconditionally. The love and support he gave to his nieces and nephews, treating them as though they were his own children, was truly remarkable. As a friend, Hunter had a passion for helping others. He willingly provided assistance to those in need and served as a caretaker for many. His generosity, compassion, and willingness to show up for others were hallmarks of his life.

Hunter served as a Deacon at MorningStar Baptist Church for 33 years. He also volunteered at The Italian Home for over 20 years and was a member of the Big Brothers/Big Sister organization.

Hunter was preceded in death by his parents, Alonzo Marion Austin and Ardelia Mae Tweedy Austin; three sisters: Juanita, Detritus, Phyllis; three brothers: Duvall Sr. , Ronny, Bucky; and his beloved daughter, Cookie.

Hunter leaves to cherish his memory, his beloved wife of 53 years, Mattie Austin of Holbrook, MA; his son, Hunter Jr. and wife Virginie Clavel, Grandsons Felix and Hendrix of Montreal Canada; four sisters, Mary of Atlanta, Elois, Charlene and Deborah of Virginia ; two brothers, Richard of Boston, Wilford and Tim of Virginia ; two grandchildren, Felix and Hendrix of Canada; and a special nieces and nephew including Coretta of Boston, Daria of Cambridge and Duval Jr. of Nebraska, and a host of nieces & nephews and great nieces and nephews and other family members and dear friends.

Hunter’s life was a testimony to faith, family, service, love, and perseverance. He leaves behind a legacy that will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Though we mourn his earthly departure, we give thanks to God for the 78 years we were blessed with Hunter and for the love, memories, and wisdom he shared throughout his life.