With heavy hearts and countless memories, we announce the passing of a truly unique soul, Bryce Dewayne Austin, who left this world far too soon at the age of 20 on May 20th, 2026.

Born and raised in Clay Hill, Bryce was a God-loving boy who grew up with the biggest smile that could light up any room. He lived life wide open and full throttle. From a very young age, he had a gift for making everyone laugh and smile. He was the ultimate prankster, always playing the biggest jokes. Some of these would make you mad at first, but within a minute, he’d have you laughing right along with him. If you heard tires squealing down a road or saw smoke rolling from a truck, chances are he was somewhere nearby grinning from ear to ear. He loved burnouts, muddy trails, loud engines, late nights with friends, and anything that got his adrenaline going.

But beyond the wild spirit and rambunctious ways was a young man with a heart as big as the country sky. We know he had God in his heart, and that divine light shone through his deep commitment to love and family. He absolutely loved his mama, and to some he was the "angel baby" who could do no wrong—even though everyone knew he was always up to something. He loved his family fiercely, protected the people he cared about, and could make anyone laugh with his stubborn charm and quick wit. He never met a stranger and left an impression everywhere he went.

Whether he was gathered around a bonfire, riding dirt roads, hunting, working alongside his dad, or raising a little ruckus with his buddies, Bryce lived every day unapologetically himself, guided by a faith that was as quiet as it was strong. He reminded everyone around him to enjoy life, laugh loudly, and never be afraid to leave a little smoke behind.

He is survived by his mama; Heather Gallagher (Garrett) , Dad; Brandon Austin (Briana), Siblings; Alivia, Ty, and Ember. Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, and more cousins than you can count. Along with countless extended family and friends who became family over the years.

Though his time here was short, the tracks he left behind will never fade. The sound of revving engines, country music drifting through the air, and the smell of burnt rubber will forever carry memories of him and he will be in our hearts forever, comforted by the knowledge that he is resting in the arms of the Lord.

“Ride fast, raise some chaos, and watch over us from Heaven’s backroads.”

The family will receive friends from 10:00am to 11:00am on Monday, June 1, 2026 at Clay Hill Baptist Church and funeral services will begin at 11:00am with Dr. Rick Crews officiating. Burial will follow at Long Branch Cemetery.