Staff Report
Justin James Gabriel, 42, passed away on July, 1, 2025.
Born in Austin on December 2, 1982, Justin was the son of Jeri and James Gabriel. He lived in Buda for 25 years, graduating from Hays High School in 2001. While in high school, Justin ran cross country and worked at Run Tex in Austin. He continued his running career at Adams State University in Alamosa, Colorado.
Running was Justin’s inspiration, which he shared with many. He also inspired others as a running coach. People were drawn to his charismatic personality, leading to an abundant group of friends that supported Justin to the end.
He has finished the race and is now peacefully free.
Justin is survived by his parents Jeri and James Gabriel, his brother Johnathan Gabriel (Samantha), his niece Nora Gabriel and his grandfather Jack Cromartie (Roxanne).
The family would like to thank our friends, Justin’s friends and the Hays County community that stood by them after his 2009 injury.
Services will be held at 4 p.m. on Friday, July 25, at Bethany Lutheran Church, 3701 W. Slaughter Lane, Austin, TX.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The University of Texas at Austin Institute for Neuroscience online at bit.ly/3Gi5tk5.
