Demetria “ Dee” Austin gained her wings Tuesday September 8, 2026 at the age of 57. Dee as she was affectionately known as was born on December 16, 1968, the daughter of Barbara Cockerham and Richard Austin of Wilmington, NC. Dee was born and raised in Wilmington, NC and later moved to Winston-Salem, NC. Playing her beloved sports of volleyball and softball, she attended and graduated from West Forsyth High School in 1987, Dee then went on to earn a BS at Catawba College in 1991. During her career the WSFCS, she later obtained her Masters in Education from Salem College.

Dee spent 35 years working for the WSFCS – departing as an Exceptional Children’s Facilitator. Dee belonged to several organizations over the years, National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, BlackGirls Run and The Cowboys Stars of the Carolinas Fan Club.

Dee devoted her time and heart into giving back. She participated in several missionary trips to Belize with her church home, First Assembly, was dedicated to education, and she sponsored several youth educational expenses.

Dee survived by her parents, Barbara (Jerome-deceased) Cockerham and Richard (Tamiko- deceased) Austin both of Winston Salem, NC; four sisters, Shinika Austin and Takisha (Antuane) Wright both of Winston Salem, NC Jerelle (Kenny) Daggs and Nailani Norris both of Maryland; three nephews, Jakier “Poppa” Austin of Winston-Salem, Ethan and Ellis Daggs of Maryland; three nieces, Cierria “Skinny Minny” Austin and Kierria “Queen Pennie” Austin both of Winston-Salem, and Noah Proctor of Maryland; one great nephew, Liam Mack Austin; one great niece, T’Ari Austin; and host of aunts, uncles, cousins, three God daughters and friends.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Friday September 11, 2026 at Russell Funeral Home.

Celebration of life services will be held at 1:00pm Saturday, September 12, 2026 at First Calvary Baptist Church, 401 NE Woodland Avenue, Winston-Salem, NC 27101. The family visitation will be held from 12:00noon until 1:00pm on Saturday at the Church.