FARMINGDALE - Edward B. Austin Jr., 95, of Farmingdale, Maine, passed away peacefully on October 14, 2026, at the Maine Veterans’ Home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on August 7, 1931, in South Gardiner, Maine, Edward was the son of the late Edward and Flora Austin. Known to family and friends as Bud, he built a life filled with love, dedication, and adventure.

Edward was predeceased by his beloved wife, Jeanne Austin, with whom he shared 65 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they built a home filled with laughter, kindness, and devotion to one another and their family. The love and the memories they created will remain a lasting part of the lives they touched.

Edward was a devoted father to Stacey McIntyre and her husband, Kevin, and Jason Austin and his wife, Sarah. He took great pride in being “Papa” and “Great Papa” to his grandchildren and great-grandson. He especially cherished time spent with Devyn and her partner, Trevor, and their son, Leighton, as well as Owen, Rylie, Kailyn, and Eben. He felt truly blessed by the many special moments they shared and the memories they made together.

He is survived by his beloved sister, Elizabeth Miele, and her husband, Vincent. He was predeceased by his brother, Darryl Austin. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, John Mank; his sister-in-law, Joyce Fenner; and many nieces, nephews and cousins who held a special place in his heart.

Edward graduated from Bridgton High School in Bridgton, Maine, in 1949 and joined the U.S. Navy in the spring of 1951. He served on active duty until 1955, spending much of his service aboard the USS Pocono(AGC-16) during the Korean War. Following his military service, he attended the University of Maine, where he earned his bachelor’s degree and met Jeanne, the love of his life.

Edward went on to enjoy a long career in the insurance industry, working in claims and adjusting, before finishing his career at Bath Iron Works in 1998.

Beyond his career, Bud found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He treasured time with family and friends, took pride in maintaining his yard and outdoor spaces, and rarely missed his grandchildren’s athletic events. He loved celebrating holidays, carrying on family traditions, and traveling with Jeanne.

He also cherished reconnecting with his Navy shipmates, traveling across the country for reunions, sightseeing, and sharing stories. Whether catching up with old friends or enjoying a conversation over a cup of coffee, Bud valued the connections that brought people together.

When his children were young, he took great pride in serving as a Cub Scout den leader, coaching baseball and soccer, and attending recitals. He was also known for making the best baked beans. At home, he spent countless hours mowing his meticulous lawn, maintaining vast flower beds, and tending to the pool. He always made sure everything was just right and the water was crystal clear.

Bud’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, in the traditions he helped create, and in the family he cherished so deeply.

Edward’s family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Liberty Island at the Maine Veterans’ Home for the compassionate care and support they provided.

There will be no public services.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of one’s choice.

In honoring Edward’s life we encourage you to leave memories and upload photos to his memorial page at www.staplesfuneralhome.com. These shared moments will serve as a tribute to a life lived fully.

Arrangements and guidance are in the care of Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, Maine.