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Salem Today
By the People, for the People
Longtime Salem Resident Elmer Austin Dies at 85
Austin was known for his faith, family, and love of gardening and classic cars.
Apr. 2, 2026 at 3:23pm
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Elmer Austin, an 85-year-old resident of Salem, Illinois, passed away on March 31, 2026, at Centralia Manor. Austin was born in Montgomery County in 1940 and spent his life centered around his faith, family, and hobbies like gardening, restoring antique cars, and listening to St. Louis Cardinals baseball games.
Why it matters
Elmer Austin's passing marks the end of an era for the tight-knit community of Salem, where he was known as a devoted family man and active member of the local Baptist church. His lifelong commitment to simple joys and traditional values reflects the changing nature of small-town Midwest life.
The details
Austin retired from Egyptian Concrete and was a longtime member of Odin First Baptist Church. In his free time, he took great pride in maintaining his lawn and garden, working on his antique car collection, and listening to Cardinals games. He is survived by his wife Janet, son Brian, daughter Angela, and several grandchildren and siblings.
- Elmer Austin passed away on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.
- Austin was born on September 18, 1940.
- Austin married Janet Sawyer on June 12, 1971.
The players
Elmer Austin
An 85-year-old resident of Salem, Illinois who spent his life centered around his faith, family, and hobbies like gardening, restoring antique cars, and listening to St. Louis Cardinals baseball games.
Janet Sawyer Austin
Elmer Austin's wife of 55 years.
Brian Austin
Elmer and Janet's son.
Angela Smith
Elmer and Janet's daughter.
Leland Redfern
The officiant for Elmer Austin's funeral service.
Dr. Andy DeWitt
The officiant for Elmer Austin's funeral service.
What they’re saying
“Elmer was known for his deep faith, love of family, and simple joys like gardening and classic cars. He will be deeply missed in our community.”
— Leland Redfern, Funeral Officiant
“Dad always put his faith and family first. He taught us the value of hard work, tradition, and taking pride in the little things in life.”
— Brian Austin, Son
What’s next
Elmer Austin's funeral service will be held on Friday, April 3, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Crouse Funeral Home in Salem. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service.
The takeaway
Elmer Austin's life and legacy reflect the enduring values of faith, family, and community that have sustained small-town Midwest life for generations. His passing marks the end of an era, but his influence will continue to be felt through the lives he touched.
