The horticultural world is mourning the loss of David J. C. Austin, who died at his home in Shropshire, surrounded by his family. Austin was a leading figure in the internationally renowned David Austin Roses business and spent more than 30 years guiding the company’s growth and global success.
David J. C. Austin joined the family business in Albrighton, Shropshire, in 1990, working alongside his father, David C. H. Austin, whose pioneering breeding work established the now-famous English Roses. Under his leadership, the company evolved from a specialist family nursery into one of the world’s most recognized rose brands while maintaining its commitment to breeding fragrant, garden-worthy roses.
In a heartfelt statement, his children Richard, James, and Olivia Austin paid tribute to their father, describing him as a man whose love for gardening was at the very core of his identity.
“First and foremost, Dad was a gardener. That was at the heart of who he was. He carried our grandfather’s vision with humility and an unwavering sense of responsibility, always putting the roses, the family business and its people before himself,” they said.
They also remembered him as kind, modest, adventurous, and someone who faced his illness with courage and dignity.
“Above all, he was our Dad, and words cannot express how much we will miss him. We couldn’t be more proud of him,” the family added.
The Austin family expressed gratitude to those who cared for David during his illness and supported them throughout this difficult time.
David Austin Roses confirmed that the business will continue under its experienced leadership team, working closely with the next generation of the Austin family, and remains committed to serving customers and partners worldwide.
David J. C. Austin’s passing marks the loss of a second generation of one of horticulture’s most influential families. Alongside the legacy established by his father, he played a central role in building David Austin Roses into a globally recognized name, with its roses flourishing in gardens and landscapes across the world.
He will be remembered for his dedication to gardening, his stewardship of the family business, and the lasting beauty he helped bring to countless gardens around the globe.
Rest in peace, David J. C. Austin. Your legacy will continue to bloom for generations to come.