Austin Leigh

Austin Leigh, 32, passed away after a long battle with drug addiction. His family can attest that he was deeply loved in spite of this addiction. He always had hope for recovery and always kept trying. He persevered, even in the most difficult of times. His life impacted the lives of countless others, and he faced challenges head-on with a spirit of fierce determination. His siblings and parents learned so much about love and forgiveness from his presence on Earth. Deeply missed, Austin’s memory will be forever held close by those who knew him best.

The 1990s were an exciting time to be living in the United States of America. The Cold War was coming to a close, and constant developments in technology made everyday life easier and more enjoyable for many. It was during this exhilarating time that James and Teresa (Malowney) Leigh of Tampa, Florida, were eagerly awaiting the arrival of their first child. On October 19, 1992, they welcomed their son, Austin Zechariah, into their hearts and home.

Throughout his childhood, Austin was a typical boy of his generation in many ways. He is remembered as an adorable baby and a playful and imaginative child. Austin was raised alongside his siblings, Steven, Kaelan, Christina, Megan, Leo, Natalie, and Andrew. After his birth his mother, Teresa, joined the military and later divorced. Austin lived in Connecticut with his mother where Teresa met the love of her life and Austin’s soon to be father, Neil Redmond. Neil and Teresa were married in Virginia and ultimately settled down in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Growing up, Austin had endless amounts of energy. He enjoyed ice skating and playing field hockey and shooting hoops at the local church. Austin also liked watching the Powder Puff Girls on TV.

Austin was homeschooled throughout much of his childhood. He later attended Hackett Catholic High School in Kalamazoo. During his time in high school, Austin found satisfaction in completing the volunteer work for school requirements. Austin was very social and enjoyed hanging out with his friends. School did not come easy for him. He had to work harder than others due to his learning disability. He persisted despite those challenges and graduated from Hackett Catholic High School in 2010.

Austin had many struggles through much of his adult life, but even through those struggles he always persisted. He was strong and resilient. He always kept trying and never gave up. He had a beautiful spirit and beat to his own drum.

Austin did his best to be kind and loving towards others. He wanted nothing more than to be a good person.

When reflecting on the life of Austin Leigh, it is easy to see both his strength and perseverance. Though he will be dearly missed, Austin leaves a special place in the hearts, minds and souls of those who loved him.

Surviving members of his family include his parents Teresa and Neil Redmond; his siblings: Steven, Kaelan, Christina, Megan, Leo, Natalie, Andrew. He is also survived by his grandparents: George Malowney, Celinda Snow, Michael Leigh, his aunt Michelle Leigh. He was preceded in death by his father, James Leigh and his Grandmother, Katherin Kinsley, and Step Grandfather Cornelius Redmond. He is well remembered by the Redmond members of his family who he considered his own including his Step Grandmother, Mary Redmond and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Cremation has taken place. A Life Story Service for Austin will be held Wednesday, November 20 at 3:30 PM at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900, where a reception will follow where food, drinks, and stories will be shared. Celebrate Austin's life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com