Austin L. Loving, 44, of Cameron, IL, passed away on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria, IL.
He was born on March 18, 1981 in Monmouth, IL, the son of Robert “Bob” W. and Connie (Burns) Loving. Austin was raised and educated in rural Monmouth and attended ICS and Yorkwood High School. He later attended Carl Sandburg College in Galesburg.
Austin was a jack of all trades; he most recently worked at Trillium Dell in Galesburg. In addition to his work, he owned and operated “The Loving Heritage” in Cameron, a unique shop where he skillfully handcrafted wood carvings, drawings, and photography projects. Austin enjoyed playing the guitar, fishing, mushrooming and was an avid collector of coins, tools, and saw dust. He loved to learn and had a vast trivia knowledge. Austin overcame many obstacles in his life. He wasn’t just tough, he was extraordinary. He had a spirit that refused to be crushed. Austin lived an honorable life, one that showed the weak and fearful how to be victorious in struggle, with his courage, humor, and stubborn refusal to quit.
Surviving Austin is his mother, Connie Loving of Cameron, IL; his siblings, Tony (Yolanda) Loving of Collinsville, IL, Amy (Jeff) McWhorter of Aledo, IL, Amy Cokel of Cameron, IL, and Melinda (Derek) Perry of Cameron, IL. Also surviving is his grandmother, Sarah Burns of Monmouth, IL; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and a plethora of really great friends.
He was preceded in death by his father; his maternal grandfather, Edward Burns; and paternal grandparents, Earl & Grace Loving.
A Celebration of Life will be from 3:00-7:00 p.m., Sunday, September 14, 2025 at Tiny Acres Event Venue (2177 Twp Rd 2100 E, Monmouth, IL 61462). Cremation rites have been accorded. Memorials can be made to the Central Warren Fire Protection District, Central Illinois Memorial Kidney Fund, Immaculate Conception School, or the charity of one’s choice, and can be sent to the funeral home. McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of the arrangements.
