Austin Willette

Austin was born on March 24, 1999, the youngest of five brothers — a beautiful, active little boy who quickly learned that family, friends, and faith were the most important things in life. He loved spending time with his aunts, uncles, and cousins on Saturdays, filling the days with laughter and love. Sundays were often spent at the lake house up north, where Austin learned to sail, kayak, and fish alongside his brothers, ending each day with a warm dinner at his Gram’s table.

From a young age, Austin showed a deep kindness toward both young children and the elderly. Growing up in a big family surrounded by friends, his heart was naturally full of love, compassion, and joy.

As he got older, Austin discovered his love for sports — baseball, basketball, and football — and he played with the same energy and determination that he brought to everything in life. He also loved to sing and dance with his family, filling the house with laughter and music.

Austin had a wonderful sense of humor and loved the ongoing jokes and playful pranks that were part of everyday life in a big family. He could make anyone laugh, often turning even an ordinary day into something memorable. His laughter was contagious, and his joy made every gathering brighter.

After high school, Austin began working with his family at Dodge Grain. He took great pride in his work, especially when he was out on long drives delivering to the beautiful farms. The peaceful country roads, the animals, and the people he met along the way brought him joy.

Austin cherished the holidays spent at home surrounded by family. He looked forward to the traditional chocolate cream pie his aunt made every year and the annual beach vacations that brought everyone together — his nieces, nephews, and brothers, all laughing, playing, and making memories. Family was always at the center of his world. He loved deeply, and his bond with his brothers was something truly special — each of them sharing memories, laughter, and love that will last forever. Austin was a shining light in our family, but that light never dimmed the love or strength shared between his brothers. It simply added to it.

As Austin grew into a young man, he found another love — riding motorcycles. It was his freedom, his peace, and his joy. But tragically, that love would be taken from him.

On a quiet day, less than a mile from the road he grew up on, a distracted driver crossed the yellow line. I was driving down that same road and came upon the scene — not realizing it was my son until I was standing over him.

Austin passed away the next day in Boston. He was only twenty-four years old —full of life, dreams, and love.

With our grief came a purpose. We started a movement called Austin’s Voice Against Distracted Driving. With the incredible support of the motorcycle community, we found the strength to speak when our hearts were shattered. They helped us find our voice again — a voice that now speaks for Austin and for all families who have suffered because of distracted driving. They encouraged us to speak from the heart, to share Austin’s story, and to spread awareness so no other family has to live this pain. Through Austin’s Voice, we remind everyone to check twice for motorcycles, stay focused, and remember that every life on the road matters.

We will always be so thankful to the first responders, especially the Salem, New Hampshire Fire and Police Departments, who tried to save Austin’s life with such compassion and care. Their dedication will never be forgotten. We are also deeply grateful to law enforcement and the Rockingham, New Hampshire DistrictAttorney’s Office, who worked tirelessly to bring justice for Austin and for ourfamily.

We are also humbled that a scholarship was created in Austin’s memory, helping to support others as they chase their dreams — a reflection of his generous heart and love for life. Over the past year, there have been many memorials and ongoing tributes in his honor, each one keeping his spirit alive in our community and reminding others of the impact he made in just twenty-four years.

Our world was forever changed, but Austin’s spirit lives on — in the laughter we remember, in the love he gave, and in every life that his story touches.

Forever 24. Forever loved. Forever Austin.