Saundra McCabe Austin (Saundy)

Saundra McCabe Austin (Saundy), of Butler, 74, passed away at home Saturday October 22, 2000.  She was born in Uniontown on December 29th, 1947, to Paul and Dorcas McCabe, sister to Patrick McCabe, all predeceased.  Saundra grew up in Butler then attended Brescia College in Owensboro, KY where she met and married Stephen Clements.  They had two children, Daniel (married to Laura, lives in Kentucky with children Alex and Lynley) and Monica (aka Nikki, married to Phil, lives in London, England).  Saundra had a bright artistic spirit and committed fully to many pursuits alongside motherhood.  Starting as a teacher, she later worked for the Welcome Wagon, owned an antique store and designed and sewed costumes for Augusta College, Fort Gordon and Davidson Fine Arts School theatre productions in Augusta, GA where she and Stephen threw wonderful parties at their home.  Back in Kentucky, she took the reins as Managing Director of the premiere Theatre Workshop of Owensboro. Afterward she pursued belly dancing in Florida while sewing Middle Eastern and Renaissance costumes.  After marrying Kenny Austin, they adventured to California where she enjoyed being an Extra in film and tv.  She was widowed and eventually returned to Butler to care for her mother, Dorcas, where she enjoyed ballroom dancing, exploring photography, reconnecting with former classmates and caring for her sweet calico, Andromeda. Born with gorgeous blonde curls, after cancer treatments Saundra filled her closet with wigs, thereafter, modelling a variety of red-haired looks which complemented her fabulous and fun sense of style; she dressed well every day, whether going out or staying in.  Taught the joy of photography by her father, she shot pictures with curiosity and a unique perspective (see BBKane on flickr.com).  She loved listening to classic rock, traveling, baking, watching CSI, NCIS, true crime and Ancient Aliens, but her favorite hobby was always shopping — anywhere and everywhere.  Her incredible eye for thrift store treasures was invaluable! First diagnosed with breast cancer 22 years ago, she persevered and thrived until it metastasized in 2017.  Since then, she endured her pain with an amazing amount of fortitude and grace.  We will sorely miss her laughter, love and hugs, but she is now pain-free, and we know she is traveling the universe, listening to Freddie Mercury, and dancing with joy.  Bye Momma, Love you! In lieu of flowers, please donate in Saundra’s honor to National Breast Cancer Coalition Fund or Brain & Behavior Research Foundation. All arrangements through THE SPENCER D. GEIBEL FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, 140 NEW CASTLE ROAD, BUTLER, PA 16001