It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of J. Max Austin, Jr., M.D., a revered figure in the field of gynecologic oncology and a cherished member of the UAB Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Austin passed away on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, compassion, and excellence that will continue to inspire future generations of medical professionals.

Dr. Austin's journey began in Wetumpka, Alabama, where his roots and commitment to his home state shaped his illustrious career. After earning his bachelor's degree from Oxford College of Emory University in 1963, he returned to Alabama to receive his medical degree from the Medical College of Alabama (now UAB) in 1967. Following a year of residency training in Atlanta and two years of service in the Air Force, Dr. Austin embarked on a remarkable career that would span decades and impact countless lives.

He completed his OB/GYN residency and fellowship in gynecologic oncology at UAB, and his career in medicine has been a testament to his unwavering dedication to advancing the field and improving patient care. Dr. Austin's professional journey was marked by numerous milestones, including his role as Chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Homestead Air Force Base and his extensive practice at Southern Gynecologic Oncology in Birmingham, where he served patients for 23 years.

Charles A. Leath, III, M.D., MSPH, Division Director of Gynecologic Oncology and Ellen Gregg Shook Culverhouse Chair in Gynecologic Oncology, affirmed that Dr.  Austin was the consummate gentlemen, citizen and cancer surgeon that worked to ensure and provide excellent gynecologic cancer care to those across the state of Alabama and the Southeast.

In 2000, Dr. Austin returned to UAB, where he took on the role of full professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology. His return was celebrated with the establishment of the J. Max Austin, Jr., M.D. Endowed Chair in Gynecologic Oncology, a fitting tribute to his remarkable contributions to medicine and medical education.

“Dr. Austin contributed directly to the education of nearly 50 gynecologic oncology fellows at UAB,” said Leath, “including thankfully my own, and his teachings on surgical efficiency, novel surgical approaches and practice management are still followed to this day.”

His commitment to addressing the disparities in cancer care, particularly in Alabama, was a driving force in his career. Dr. Austin was vocal about the urgent need to educate and improve techniques in the detection and diagnosis of gynecologic malignancies, recognizing the critical importance of early intervention.

“In conjunction with leaders in Gynecologic Oncology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham,” said Leath, “Dr. Austin helped implement a system of combined private and academic gynecologic cancer care for the city of Birmingham and the state of Alabama which served as a model for other communities and institutions to emulate.”

J. Michael Straughn, Jr., M.D., UAB Medicine Chief of the Medical Staff and J. Max Austin Jr., M.D. Endowed Chair in Gynecologic Oncology, shared his sentiments:” Dr. Austin was an amazing physician, surgeon, teacher, and colleague. During his career, he taught countless residents and fellows the art of pelvic surgery. I will always remember the kindness and respect he had for his patients, their families, nurses, staff, and colleagues.”

Dr. Austin’s influence extended beyond his clinical and academic roles. He was honored with numerous accolades, reflecting his exceptional contributions to the field and to his community. Notable recognitions include the Health Care Hero Award by the Birmingham Business Journal, the Carl Chandler Alumnus Award from Oxford College of Emory University, and the Distinguished Alumnus Award from the Medical Alumni Association of the UAB Medical Center. His leadership extended nationally and was President of the Society of Gynecologic Oncology in 2002. Further, he was recognized as a 2015 Alabama Legend in Obstetrics/Gynecology by the Alabama section of ACOG. His commitment to teaching earned him several nominations and the award for best faculty teacher by the Argus Committee at UAB.

His dedication was also recognized by the Sigma Chi Fraternity, which honored him with the Significant Sig Award, and by the Elmore County 4-H Club, which presented him with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Dr. Austin's legacy is defined by his relentless pursuit of excellence, his profound impact on the lives of his patients, and his dedication to mentoring and teaching the next generation of medical professionals. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the field of gynecologic oncology and on the UAB community.

Warner K. Huh, M.D., FACOG, FACS, MSHA, UAB Department of OB/GYN Chair, explained that Dr. Austin was a trailblazer in every sense of the word.

“He set the standard for how gynecologic oncology should be practiced, how to conduct oneself around patients and families, how to embrace and love your team, and how to be an asset and leader in one’s community,” said Huh. “In 2024, the UAB gynecologic oncology division still practices based on fundamentals taught by Dr. Austin. The same can be said for the dozens of gynecologic oncologists across the United States. He was loved by his fellows, residents and medical students and always comported himself with such grace and kindness. His surgical talents were second to none, and he was a champion of innovation and efficiency-two uniquely different traits.”

As we mourn the loss of Dr. J. Max Austin, Jr., we also celebrate his extraordinary life and career. His passion for his work and his commitment to improving patient care and medical education will continue to inspire all who knew him.

“The Department and Division will forever be indebted to his last legacy at UAB,” said Huh, “and we lost a true legend and a champion of women’s health and cancer care in Alabama.”

Our deepest condolences go out to his family, colleagues, and all those whose lives were touched by Dr. Austin’s remarkable contributions. He will be dearly missed but remembered with great respect and admiration.