The Obituary
Sister Marilyn J. Austin Wade “Ennie”
Sunrise Sunset
May 28, 1954 November 6, 2025
Remembering A Time (Ecclesiastes 3:1)
“To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heavens.”
A Time to Be Born
Sister Marilyn was born to the late Elder James R. Austin Sr. and the late Edith B. Austin, who welcomed her into a world she would fill with grace, compassion, and purpose.
A Time to Sow
Sister Marilyn received her early education in the Decatur County Public School System. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Science Degree in Sociology from Talladega College in Talladega, Alabama. During her collegiate years, she became a proud and faithful member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., cherishing the bonds and service that came with sisterhood.
A Time to Embrace
Marilyn met the love of her life, Alfred William Wade, and the two were united in marriage on July 28, 1984. They shared twenty-nine years of joy, partnership, and love until his passing. Though no children were born of this union, Marilyn touched and influenced countless children and young people with her nurturing heart and gentle guidance. She adored her family, siblings, and friends deeply and wholeheartedly.
A Time to Serve
At an early age, Sister Marilyn accepted Christ as her personal Savior and joined Bethel AME Church in Attapulgus, GA—known today as New Bethel Community Church. She served faithfully in many roles, including: Choir Member, Kitchen Committee, Trustee Board, Stewardess Board, Missionary Society Board, Sunday School Superintendent. Her service was sincere, consistent, and filled with love for both God and people.
Her favorite song was “God Is Good” (Reginae Ball), a reflection of her enduring faith and joyful spirit.
A Time to Rejoice
Sister Marilyn leaves behind a loving and grateful family who will forever cherish her memory: Sisters-in-law: Mamie T. Austin, Attapulgus, GA, Christine M. Austin, Atlanta, GA Charlotte Wade, Bainbridge, GA; Brothers-in-law: James Wade, Tallahassee, FL; Amoz Wade, Augusta, GA; Devoted Nephew & Nieces: Terrance Carter, Madyson T. Carter Attapulgus, GA, Reginald Jones (Kimberly), Ocala, FL, Michael Austin (Letitia) Bainbridge, GA, Jeanette Grimsley (Jason), Bainbridge, GA, and Chastity Austin , Atlanta, GA; Special Friends/Sisters: Terri Williams, Sharlene Moore, Alma Sue Mitchell, Cassandra Rayford, Annie Wilford, and Earline Bryant; Goddaughters: Ericka Clemmons, Kaneisha Brown (Demorris), Leanne B. Ukwute (Peter), Alexis Chrispen (Michael), Shasta Jackson (Andre) Godson: Rashawn Ferguson (Shabuka) God-Grandchildren: Samone Clemmons, Naomi Clemmons, India Clemmons, Paris Clemmons, Kamiyah Brown, Demorris Brown Jr., Imani Lee, Zack Jenkins, Alena Jenkins, Dennis Jenkins Jr., Mikeria Chrispen, Zacchaeus Chrispen Sr., Treazure Thomas, Ma’Niya Chrispen, Zacchaeus Chrispen Jr.;She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and friends who will continue to honor her legacy of love, service, and grace.
To send flowers or plant a tree in memory of Marilyn Austin Wade, visit the Tribute Store.
Previous Events
Visitation
14
Nov
635 Bruton Street
Bainbridge, GA 39819
Service
15
Nov
207 N. Griffin Ave.
Attapulgus, GA 39815
Cemetery Details
Location
207 E. Griffin Ave.
Attapulgus, GA 39815