Alison Maureen Austin—celebrating her life, her courageous battle, and the community coming together to support her young daughters in Toledo.

Before diving into the details, here is a brief summary: Alison Maureen Austin (née Martin), born November 22, 1976, passed away peacefully at home in Toledo on April 16, 2025, after a courageous fight against ovarian cancer . She is survived by her parents, Gary and Marlene Martin; her brothers, Scott (Christina) and Matthew Martin; and her three daughters—Mikalah Zoie Bauman (Cameron), Mia Simone Austin, and Nevaeh Jade Austin—who now carry forward her spirit of love and strength . Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. at the Riverview Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Northwood, offering friends and neighbors a chance to honor her memory .

Early Life and Family Roots

Alison was born Alison Maureen Martin on November 22, 1976, growing up in Toledo surrounded by a close‑knit family who instilled values of kindness and community service . The daughter of educators Gary and Marlene Martin, she demonstrated compassion from a young age—helping her mother organize book drives and tutoring neighborhood children. Her brothers, Scott and Matthew, remember her as a protective big sister who introduced them to music, art, and the power of a good joke on tough days .

The Cancer Journey

In late 2023, Alison was diagnosed with ovarian cancer—a disease that accounts for an estimated 19,680 new cases and 12,740 deaths in the U.S. in 2024, making it the deadliest gynecologic malignancy . Despite the often‑silent nature of symptoms and the fact that about 90% of cases occur in women over 40 , Alison confronted her diagnosis with unwavering resolve. Friends recall her determination through rounds of chemotherapy and her commitment to stay present for Mia’s first dance recital and Nevaeh’s kindergarten graduation.

A Mother’s Love and Legacy

Alison’s greatest pride was her three daughters.

Mikalah Zoie Bauman (age 15), whom she lovingly called “Mika,” inherited her mother’s creativity and already volunteers at the local art studio.
Mia Simone Austin (age 12) shared Alison’s passion for reading and is determined to continue their bedtime story ritual of discovering new authors together.
Nevaeh Jade Austin (age 8) was Alison’s “little sunshine,” often dancing in the kitchen to her mom’s favorite tunes.

Each weekend, Alison hosted neighborhood potlucks in her backyard, turning her home into a gathering place where laughter and support were abundant.

Community Support and Memorial Service

Toledo residents have rallied around the Austin family. A GoFundMe campaign launched by Alison’s college friends has already raised thousands toward her daughters’ education . Local schools have offered grief counseling, and the Toledo Youth Arts Center is providing free after‑school art classes for the girls.

The public funeral service is scheduled for April 26 at 1:30 p.m. at the Riverview Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 224 Lemoyne Rd, Northwood, OH 43619, under the care of the Cremation Society of Toledo . A reception at the Martin family home will follow, where attendees can share memories, photos, and notes for Alison’s daughters.

Continuing Alison’s Spirit

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance—an organization funding critical studies and patient support programs nationwide Contributions can be made at .in Alison’s name, helping other women face this disease with the same courage she displayed.

Additionally, a scholarship fund is being established through the Toledo Community Foundation to support young women pursuing arts and education initiatives—a project Alison dreamt of creating herself.

How You Can Help

Donate: Visit the OCRA site to give in Alison’s memory.
Volunteer: Contact the Toledo Youth Arts Center to mentor or teach workshops for Mikalah, Mia, and Nevaeh’s cohorts.
Share Memories: Post photos and stories with #RememberAlisonAustin on social media to keep her joyful spirit alive.

Alison Maureen Austin’s journey reminds us of the fragility of life and the power of community. As Toledo comes together to mourn her loss, her legacy of love, creativity, and resilience will continue to guide and uplift her daughters—and all of us privileged to have known her.