Austin Michael Eldridge

     Austin Michael Eldridge, 31, of West Frankfort, formerly of Harrisburg, Illinois, passed away surrounded by family and friends in Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville, Indiana on February 9, 2026.
     Austin was born in Carbondale, Illinois on September 11, 1994. After graduating from Harrisburg High School in 2013, he entered the US Army where he trained as a combat medic. Austin loved getting tattoos, playing video games, making people laugh, and spending time with loved ones, especially his son.

     Austin is survived by his wife, Holly Roeder of West Frankfort, Illinois; son, Camden Michael Eldridge of Marion, Illinois; mother, Betsy Shanks and husband, Don of Pittsburg, Illinois; father, Michael Lee Eldridge and wife, Tara of Herrin, Illinois; sister, Emma Turnbow and husband, Kevin of Herrin, Illinois; step-sisters, Jessica Kirkpatrick and husband, Kris of Benton, Illinois, Rebecca Shanks of  Brussels, Belgium, and Taylor Shanks of Harrisburg, Illinois; bonus brother, Samuel Anderson and wife, Joy of Queens Creek, Arizona; nieces and nephews, Aldo Turnbow, Kobie Kirkpatrick, Kruz Kirkpatrick, Khloe Kirkpatrick, Willow Jansen, Roan Jansen, Mila Zuniga-Anderson; paternal grandmother, Kristina Elridge of Anitigo, Wisconsin; maternal grandmother, Marlene Barter of Harrisburg, Illinois; and several aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends he considered family.
     Austin was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Henry Eldridge; paternal grandmother, Margaret Hauffe; and his beloved dog, Arnold.

     Austin will be remembered for his remarkable kindness, gentle spirit, and selflessness. In the face of negativity and indifference, Austin chose tenderness. He always prioritized fun and laughter, and his smile was a gift to everyone who knew him.
          Funeral services for Austin Michael Eldridge will be held at 2 PM, Monday, February 16, 2026 at Stricklin Funeral Home in Harrisburg and burial will follow in Pierson Cemetery. Military honors will be conducted by the United States Army, the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. Visitation will be held from 12 PM to 2 PM, Monday, February 16, 2026 at Stricklin Funeral Home.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to Camden Michael Eldridge Educational Fund at Farmer’s State Bank. 

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