Mary Ruth (Ladner) Austin

Mary Ruth Austin, 70 of Poplarville, passed away Friday at her home, surrounded by her family and loved ones. Mary was born January 24, 1951 in the Dedeaux community, the 2nd of 5 children to Macy Rayford and Everetta Mary (Martin) Ladner. She grew up in Dedeaux, where she enjoyed playing baseball, basketball, even football from time to time. Mary was as tough as they come and surely didn't mind things getting physical if need be. She soon became the one that you didn't want to mess with. Growing up, it was Mary who kept all her siblings in line when it came down to it. Back in the day, you might have even seen her on Menge Ave. at the dirt track races. She graduated from HCHS with the Class of 1969, married and made her home in the Dedeaux Community. Mary worked as a butcher at V&M Grocery in Pass Christian, cutting meat there for many years. One day while paying her phone bill she ran into Melvin, who just happened to be there paying his. They actually grew up right across the branch from each other, and reconnected that afternoon. Four months later they were married and made their home in Poplarville. Mary loved country music, singing, bingo, and spending time at casinos. She had a lucky streak about her, always winning more than not, or so it seemed anyway. She was an outgoing woman who never met a stranger. Mary was strong both mentally and physically, especially after winning her battle with breast cancer. She had a heart of gold that survived 3 bypass surgeries. Mary was a loving woman that did not hold anything back, for that and so much more, she will be forever missed by all who knew and loved her. She was preceded by her parents, Macy Rayford and Everetta Mary (Martin) Ladner; an infant son, Frankie Tribble and a great-grandchild, Kohryn Rayborn. Left to cherish her memories are: her loving husband, Melvin Austin; her children, Dale (Melba) Tribble and Polly (Daniel) Mauffray, both of Kiln, Mitch (Cassie) Tribble and Melinda Cuevas, both of Pass Christian; sisters, Peggy Ladner and Melissa (John) Ladner, also of Pass Christian, with Joann (Kenneth) Barber and her brother, Ray (Becky) Ladner, both of Kiln. She leaves a legacy of eighteen grandchildren, twenty-six great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, Kamden Tribble and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends. A private family ceremony will be held May 25, 2021 at Biloxi National Cemetery. Trinity Funeral Services is honored to serve Melvin and the entire Austin family in their time of need, asking that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers over the coming days.