Austin Travis Wingate, cherished son, brother, grandson, and devoted friend, left this world on April 11, 2025, at the age of 26. Born on March 11, 1999, Austin faced challenges from the very beginning, battling a rare kidney condition known as Diffuse Mesangial Sclerosis. A courageous kidney transplant when he was just three years old allowed him to overcome dire circumstances, but the anti-rejection medications he required would alter his life in ways too numerous to count.
Despite these hardships, Austin embraced life with an indomitable spirit. He graduated from Hull-Daisetta High School and joined the Hull-Daisetta fire department at the tender age of 18. His bright smile and cheerful demeanor quickly won him a place in the hearts of his peers, who lovingly considered him a little brother. Over the years, Austin became known for his unwavering dedication and insightful consideration for his friends at the fire department. Always a hard worker, he delighted in helping firefighters, offering support on the sidelines by handing out bottled water and lifting the spirits of those around him.
Though physical limitations prevented him from engaging in some of the more strenuous aspects of firefighting, his commitment to service was unmatched. Affectionately nicknamed “Little Bit,” Austin was not just a volunteer; he was a vital part of every team he joined. His proudest accomplishment was an innate ability to anticipate the needs of his comrades, always knowing his duty before being told. This thoughtful nature resonated deeply with those in the firefighting community, who recognized and cherished the heart he brought to his role.
Austin is survived by his loving parents, Charles Wingate and Latishia Wingate, as well as his half-brother, Charles Wingate, Jr. He is remembered fondly by his grandparents, John and Estelita Wright and Gloria Wingate, and by his uncles, John Wright, Jr. and Leslie Wingate, and his aunts, Amber Wright and Sharon Wright. He leaves behind numerous great uncles, great aunts, cousins, and a host of his work family within the fire departments who valued his contributions and spirit.
Austin's life remains an inspiring testament to resilience, kindness, and the beauty of giving back, enriched by memories of meaningful moments shared with his loved ones, especially his beloved PaPaw. As we gather to honor his memory, we celebrate not only the joys he brought into our lives but also the warmth of his enduring spirit that will forever shine brightly in our hearts.
He is preceded in death by his grandfather, Harvey Wingate.
Honoring Austin as pallbearers are Benny Carroll, Sam Lewis, Eric Molina, Ethan Wells, Bryce Fregia, Aaron Jackson, and Zachary Wall. Honorary pallbearers are all of his Fire Department friends and family.
Visitation will be held on April 17, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Life Point Church, located at 505 Utah, Daisetta, TX 77533. A funeral service will take place the following day, April 18, 2025, starting at 10:00 AM, also at Life Point Church. Following the service, Austin will be laid to rest at Guedry Cemetery, 11713 Batson Prairie Road, Batson, TX 77519. As we bid farewell to Austin, let us carry forward his legacy of love, compassion, and service to others.