Debbie & Wayne

Debbie Nelson ’71 and Wayne Austin ’70 

Wayne and Debbie in 1970

How did you meet? In the common room of the Working Men’s College, Camden, ASL’s temporary location, in the fall of 1969.

What was your first impression of each other? (Debbie) I thought he was cute and aloof in an interesting way. (Wayne) I thought she was beautiful and exotic.

What was your first date? We went to see Simon & Garfunkel in concert at the Royal Albert Hall. A great evening!

How would your ASL friends and teachers describe your relationship in high school? Our closest friends figured we were destined for marriage. They were correct. We were married in 1972 and will celebrate 49 years of marriage this August. Coincidentally, my identical twin brother, David ’70, married Debbie’s classmate, Susan Findeiss ’71. 

What are your favorite shared ASL memories? Meeting each other. Lifetime friendships with classmates and teachers. Saturdays in Hyde Park. Enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of London. Our ski trip to Italy with Mr. Foster (ASL 1968-74). There are so many others.

What’s your favorite thing about your partner? (Debbie) How he loves me unconditionally and is my best friend. (Wayne) Her unwavering love and support for me.

Describe your life today. We live in Montgomery, Texas, on the shores of Lake Conroe, about an hour north of Houston. Our adult twin son and daughter live in North Hollywood, CA, and Carrollton, TX, respectively. We live in a vibrant community where we play golf and pickleball, dance, bike, and wine and dine with friends. We are active in several organizations and ministries in our neighborhood and county.

Where do you see yourselves in 10 years? God willing, still playing golf and pickleball together, riding our bikes and dancing as we continue to serve God where He leads us.

Wayne and Debbie today