Lanessa Dion Cain-Austin

Lanessa Dion Cain-Austin’s story began on March 6,1970 in Indianapolis, IN, accompanied by her twin sister; to Lynn W. and Georgia E. Cain Jr.

Lanessa received her education in the Indianapolis Public School System and graduated from NorthWest High School. She attended Wilberforce University and later graduated from the University of Indianapolis with a Bachelor of Liberal Studies.

She professed a hope in Christ at an early age and was a member of Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, where she continued her walk with Christ as an adult by teaching for the youth department.

Lanessa exemplified a genuine love for children throughout her life and professional career and left a profound impact on every family she was associated with. Her most recent position was a Newborn Screening Specialist for the Indiana Department of Health.

While being employed at the Juvenile Detention Center Lanessa met the love of her life Phillip and they were joined in holy matrimony on July 3rd, 1999 and through this union they were blessed with two precious girls; Eshe Dyan and Jolynn Dione.

Lanessa was an amazing mom. Her greatest joy in life was raising her two beautiful daughters. She made certain they were aware of all the possibilities life has to offer and if you put God first, work hard, and believe in yourself then the sky’s the limit.

Lanessa was truly dedicated to her friends and family and was an avid reader who enjoyed listening to her favorite music while baking. She was an excellent cook and could prepare any dish by just reading the recipe. Her famous seven layer salad was sought after at many family functions.

Lanessa lit up every room she entered with her affectionate smile and beautiful personality. She had a wonderful, kind, and gentle spirit with a special gift for helping and encouraging others. If you were in her presence she made you feel like you were something special. She would often say to her husband and children, “You never know if your genuine advice, kind words or friendly smile might be just what someone needed to make it another day”. Words cannot convey how much she will truly be missed.

She leaves to cherish in her memory a loving husband of 24 years; Phillip L. Austin; devoted daughters, Eshe D. Austin and Jolynn D. Austin; her canine grandson Kane; mother, Georgia E. Cain; mother in law, Janice L. Austin; twin sister Lanita V. Cain-Shelton (Gregory); brother, Lynn W. Cain III; sister in law, Jonell L. Austin; aunts and uncles, Minnie L. McFarland (Vester), Effie C. Hayes, James A. Tibbs (Doris), Bruce W. Tibbs, Michael E. Cain, Sandra J. Ridley, Shelly D. Jackson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. If we were unable to mention you blame it on the mind and not the heart.

Preceded in death by father, Lynn W. Cain Jr.; father in law, Willie J. Austin; sister in law, Sheila J. Austin; Aunt, Linda L. Tibbs; and Uncle, Bobby G. Hayes.