Elmer Austin, age 85, of Salem, Illinois, passed away at Centralia Manor on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

He was born on September 18, 1940, in Montgomery County, Illinois, the son of Emmett and Edna (Stahr) Austin. Elmer married Janet Sawyer on June 12, 1971, at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, and she survives.

Elmer retired from Egyptian Concrete. He was a member of Odin First Baptist Church and lived a life centered around faith, family, and simple joys.

He enjoyed gardening and taking great pride in caring for his lawn. Elmer was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan and loved listening to baseball games. In his spare time, he enjoyed riding his bicycle, working on his antique car, and restoring tractors.

He is survived by his son, Brian Austin and wife Jennifer of Alton; his daughter, Angela Smith and husband Allan of Iuka; and his grandchildren, Lydia Austin, Alayna Smith, and Savanna Smith. He is also survived by his brothers, Robert Austin and Roger Austin.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his siblings, Kenneth Austin, Harold Austin, Mildred Jones, Mary Purcell, and Marjorie Austin.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 3, 2026, at Crouse Funeral Home in Salem, with Leland Redfern and Dr. Andy DeWitt officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Paradise Cemetery in Salem.  Memorial contributions may be made to Salem First Baptist Church and can be received at Crouse Funeral Home.  Online condolences can be left at www.CrouseFH.com