Lynda Gail Austin

Lynda Gail Austin passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at the age of 85. She was born on March 2, 1941, in Mount Vernon, Illinois. Lynda lived in Orono, Minnesota.

She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Bernice; her father, Russell; her brother, Larry; and her grandson, Ben.

She is survived by her brothers, Rick and Bill; her sisters, Mary and Susan; her four children, Nancy (Jonathan), Russell (Christine), David, and Donald (Sue); her granddaughters, Molly and Clare; and her great-granddaughter, Heidi.

Lynda cherished her role as the older sister, her family meant everything to her, and she loved each of them deeply.

She had a vibrant spirit and a deep love for the arts. Lynda was active in community theater and enjoyed playing parts in local productions. She also had a lifelong love of music and found great happiness in all kinds of songs and performances.

Lynda started her own business and built meaningful relationships with many clients, whose lives she touched and changed through her dedication and care. Her generous spirit extended beyond her work; she also spent ten years reading books for the blind, reflecting her compassion and love of literature.

She will be remembered for her creativity, her love of family, Italy, and the lasting impact she made on the lives of those who knew her.

The family would like to express their deep appreciation to the staff of both North Memorial Hospice and Valora of Orono Senior Living for the excellent care and compassion they showed Lynda in her final days.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Lynda’s honor to American Foundation for the Blind https://www.afb.org/donate

There will be a graveside service at 2:00 PM on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at Monroe Center Cemetery, 402 North St., Monroe Center, IL.