Dante' M Austin

Dante’ M. Austin age 27 passed away suddenly on June 7, 2019. He is the beloved son of Donna Kee (Dwayne Blackman) and Dante’ E. Austin. He is the loving brother of Amber Kee, Dominique Austin (Michael Poindexter), Brandon Morrison, Dwayne and Asyah Blackman. He is the cherished uncle of Ayden, Avayah, Isaiah and Aryana. He will also be sadly missed by his many aunts, uncle, cousins and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his goddaughter, Sienna Rae.

Dante’ received his high school diploma from George Washington High School where he loved to run track and read. After graduating high school he joined the United States Army. He served for 6 years and was honorably discharged. He then went on to obtain his bachelors from Rosemont College. In 2013, he began his career with the Philadelphia Sheriff Office where he graduated with highest honors. While serving as a deputy sheriff, Dante’ became the first appointed LGBT Liaison for the Philadelphia Sheriff Office. He both served and protected, but he was instrumental in creating the policies and procedures for the office. He was promoted to the rank of deputy sheriff and was assigned to the civil enforcement unit in 2017.

Dante’ was ranked Number 1 to be promoted to sergeant.

Dante’ was a son, brother, uncle, devoted friend, Army Veteran, law enforcement officer and LGBTQ community activist. He served on boards for multiple organizations throughout the city. He had a smile that could light up a room and a heart that knew no boundaries. Dante’ was the kind of soul you wanted to see when you had good news and the person you needed to see when you were having a bad day. His passion, dedication and leadership were some of his best traits and qualities. He always remained humble and grounded, as he pushed for change, both for himself and others. His death is a loss to all who knew him but especially to his family. He touched the lives of so many friends, community members and people who just needed an extra hand.

He spoiled his nieces, nephews and truly cared for all those around him.