Lloyd Walter “L.W.” Linton, age 72, of Edinburg, Illinois, went home to be with the Lord on January 22, 2026.
L.W. was born on July 8, 1953, and was a proud graduate of Edinburg High School, Class of 1971. During his school years, he was a multi-sport athlete and actively involved in music and school clubs. His love for sports never faded, and he remained a devoted fan of basketball throughout his life, especially enjoying watching his own children play.
L.W. lived a life defined by hard work, faith, and devotion to his family. He loved farming and gardening and spent much of his life connected to the land. Later in life, he drove a semi for a farm, a role that suited his steady nature and strong work ethic. A true tinkerer and busybody, L.W. was always fixing, building, or finding something useful to do. He rarely sat still, unless it was to be with those he loved.
Music and dancing were among L.W.’s greatest joys. He loved music deeply and never hesitated to take to the dance floor, especially when it meant sharing a moment with those he loved. His joy for music, movement, and togetherness was something he passed down to his children, a legacy of laughter, rhythm, and love that lives on in each of them.
Above all else, L.W. loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. His love was constant, protective, and unwavering. Time spent with family, whether working alongside them, sharing stories, dancing, or simply being present, brought him his greatest joy. Having never met a stranger, L.W.’s unique talent was making everyone he met feel special and loved.
L.W. was a member of Bethel Baptist Church in Taylorville, Illinois, where he was baptized and faithfully placed his trust in the Lord. His faith was central to who he was and where he placed his hope. We find comfort in the promise of Revelation 21:4: “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
L.W. is survived by his loving wife, Kathy Linton; his children, D.R. (Alie Denning) Linton, Ashley (Jayme) Francis, and Dylan (Tiffany) Linton; his sister, Marsha (Frank) Farr; his grandchildren, Rand Linton, Faye Francis, Lillian Linton, Elise Linton, and Huntley Linton; and many other beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Maxine Linton; his nephew, Rand Linton Megginson; and his uncle and aunt, Bill and Marilyn Osborne.
A visitation will be held on January 31, 2026, at Bethel Baptist Church in Taylorville, Illinois, beginning at 10:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 12:00 p.m. A private graveside service will be held at a later date for the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to support Kathy Linton, as the family navigates this season of loss.
Though our hearts are broken, we take peace in knowing L.W. is now whole, at rest, and free from pain, reunited with loved ones, surrounded by music, and dancing again.
McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.
