Saturday, September 7, 2024
As a former student at UNB many years ago, I was fortunate to have had Dr Diana Austin as my prof for English 1000 and stayed in touch several years after graduating. Her influence beyond the classroom was immeasurable; she was one of those rare teachers who taught as much inside as outside the classroom. She inspired by the way she lived her life, facing every life challenge with boldness and courage that revealed her incredible inner strength. How she faced her final illness was so characteristic of her grace, tenacity and resilience, her concern for others even as her own life was ebbing, and her ability to find meaning and purpose even in the most difficult and tragic of life circumstances. Her zest and passion for life and teaching, the personal interest she took in her students and those around her, her kind encouragement, care, and thoughtful concern for others will be fondly remembered and dearly missed. To her husband Tim, and to Diana’s family who mourn her passing, my sincere sympathies and condolences on your loss. Diana was truly a great light in the world - we were blessed to have experienced her warmth and brightness for a time. May she rest in peace and may her memory and legacy continue to burn brightly in the hearts of all those who knew, loved, and were inspired by her. ~ Sephora
