Nicky Nicole Austin

Nicky was born on April 18, 1978, to Linda Faye Collier-Austin and James Arthur Austin in Little Rock, Arkansas.

The middle child of three, born to James Austin, Nicky grew up on the east and west sides of town, graduating from Hall High School in 1997. She attended University of Arkansas – Little Rock and received a certificate in the Child Development Association.

In her early years, Nicky confessed her faith and hope in Jesus Christ and became a member of Trumpet in Zion (later known as Awareness Center International – ACI) under the leadership of Apostle Lawrence E. Braggs. For over 20 years, she served in the children’s department and under Apostle Braggs until his passing, leaving his legacy and leadership to be carried through his daughter, Lakeisha Braggs, who now serves as Senior Pastor, leading through Lakeisha Braggs Ministries in Little Rock.

Nicky began her working career at UAMS Early Head Start in College Station as a teacher for young children in 2003, and she later took a position at Briarwood Nursing Home, working as a CNA. On March 12, 2005, she married Paul L. McBride, II, and to their union a son, Paul L. McBride, III, was born in August 2006. Nicky worked until she encountered some health challenges, allowing her to become a stay-at-home mom. Her health began to improve, and she was able to begin working again. After working a few jobs here and there, she gained employment as an Educational Technician on the Little Rock Air Force Base in 2020, working with the pre-toddlers (one-year olds) and preschoolers (ages three – five); she was a faithful employee until her passing on Sept. 7, 2026.

Over the years Nicky tried her hand at a little bit of everything, testing her skills and abilities. She became a member of the Theta Sigma Alumnae Chapter Philo Club of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., and was also a faithful member of the Stars and Integrity Chapter #379 Order of Eastern Star Modern Free and Accepted Masons of the World, Inc. While participating in those organizations, she became a licensed hair stylist and nail technician through Thelma’s Beauty Academy.

Nicky is preceded in death by her beloved mother, Linda Faye Collier-Austin.

She is survived by her son, Paul L. McBride, III; her father, James A. Austin; siblings, LaQuisha Austin and James “JJ” Austin; aunts, Pearl Wilkerson, Theatrice “Thee” Collier, and Robbie Collier; uncle, Kem M. Austin (Doris); sister-in-law, LaMorla Thompson, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, co-workers, and her best friend, Rita Ervin.