Charles "Chuck" Austin

Charles "Chuck" Austin, 69, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly Sunday night, July 26, 2026. He was born on May 1, 1957, in Columbus, Ohio.

Chuck was preceded in death by his mother, Hazel Austin; his mother- and father-in-law, Vera and Lofton Roberts; and his brother-in-law, Gordon Johnson.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Sherry Austin; his daughters, Jennifer Austin List (Roger), Rian Austin Mastin (Jason), and Erin Austin (Josh). He was a proud and loving grandfather to Maverick, Marin, and Joselin List, Jamison Austin, and Holden Ballard, each of whom brought him immeasurable joy. He is also survived by his sisters, Beth Ann Wallace, Becky McCatherine, and Janice Hanshaw; his nieces and nephews, Josh and Jeff Hanshaw, Connor Wallace, Amber Roberts, Lee Bailey, Shanna O'Neil, and LeAnne Johnson; along with many other beloved family members and lifelong friends.

Chuck dedicated more than three decades of his life to serving the citizens of Franklin County. He began his career with the Franklin County Sheriff's Office in July 1979, working in the jail. In 1985, he transferred to Court Services, and one year later joined Warrants and Extraditions, where he was quickly promoted to Corporal. During this time, he also served in Patrol.

In 1989, Chuck was promoted to Sergeant of Extraditions and Court Services. That same year, he became one of the original members of the Franklin County Sheriff's Tactical Entry Team (TET), formed during a time when Columbus was experiencing a significant rise in violent crime. The Tactical Entry Team would later evolve into what is now known as the Sheriff's Office S.W.A.T. team. In those early years, there was no specialized equipment or armored vehicles—only dedicated deputies willing to place themselves in harm's way to protect their community. Chuck and his fellow officers faced those challenges with courage, professionalism, and unwavering commitment.

Four years later, Chuck returned to Court Services as a Sergeant, where he faithfully served for another 17 years before retiring in 2010. Although he retired from the Sheriff's Office 16 years ago, his influence continues to be felt through the men and women who serve today and through the lasting impact he made on the Sheriff's Office, its S.W.A.T. program, and the Franklin County court system.

Retirement did not slow Chuck down. In 2016, he walked through the doors of L.E.P.D., a local family-owned firearms store, and immediately became part of its family. For the next ten years, he welcomed customers with his warm smile, shared his knowledge, and helped educate a new generation on responsible firearm ownership. There was truly no job he wouldn't do to help the business. Whether greeting customers, lending a hand wherever needed, or driving through the parking lot after hours to help provide security, Chuck cared deeply for the people around him. His coworkers became his second family, and he treasured those relationships.

Throughout his career with the Sheriff's Office, Chuck received numerous commendations recognizing his dedication and exemplary service, including two Medals of Honor, a Medal of Merit, a Certificate of Appreciation, and, fittingly, recognition for perfect attendance. While the list of his accomplishments is far too long to include, these honors reflect the integrity, dedication, and work ethic that defined his life.

More important to Chuck than any badge, promotion, or award was his family. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud grandfather, a caring brother, uncle, and a dedicated son who worked tirelessly to provide for those he loved. He was a protector in every sense of the word—someone whose greatest priority was making sure his family felt safe, supported, and cared for.

Chuck never missed an opportunity to tell his daughters how much he loved them. He believed in leading by example, even if he occasionally joked with a "Do as I say, not as I do" approach. If Chuck gave you his word, you never had to wonder whether he would follow through. He was dependable, honorable, and steadfast. If he said he would be there, he would—and he would probably arrive early, sometimes much earlier than necessary, but never late.

To know Chuck was to know someone you could count on. He lived a life defined by integrity, loyalty, and service, and he quietly made the lives of those around him better. Whether serving his community, mentoring others, or simply showing up for his family, he did so with humility and unwavering commitment.

Chuck's legacy lives on in the family he loved so fiercely, in the countless lives he touched through his years of public service, and in the friendships he built along the way. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever honored.

Dad, thank you for your unconditional love, your guidance, your strength, and the example you set every day. The world will not be the same without you. We love you, and we will carry your legacy with us always.