Malene Ellis Austin, 94, passed away on Sept. 1, 2011. A native of Gates County, N.C., she was the daughter of the late Duke Ellis and Alma Benton Ellis. She was also predeceased by her husband, Warren Dudley Austin. She worked at Planters Peanuts for many years before going to Lipton Tea, where she served as an operator until retirement.  Malene was member of Bethlehem Christian Church and the Mary Sue Brittle Sunday School Class.

She is survived by her brother, Edward T. Ellis, and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A funeral service will be held on Sunday, Sept. 4, 2011, at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Michael D. Halley and the Rev. Reginald Warren officiating. Burial will follow at Bethlehem Christian Church Cemetery. Friends may join the family at the funeral home on Saturday evening from 7 to 8 p.m. for visitation. Condolences may be registered online at www.parrfuneralhome.com.