MENDOTA – Lynda S. Auchstetter, 81, of Mendota passed away Sept. 24, 2023, at Allure of Mendota surrounded by her loved ones.

A private family only service will be held at the Merritt Funeral Home, Mendota with Father Jeff Windy officiating. Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, Mendota.

Lynda was born on June 11, 1942, to Henry and Pearl (Jones) Billings. She married Robert Auchstetter on May 7, 1960, in Sublette. She had one brother, Donald Billings.

Lynda will be greatly missed by her children, Larry (Laura) of Charleston, Terry (Alma) of Lake in the Hills, Lori (Tom) Valenta of Kenosha, Wis., Amy (Peter) McCall of Niles, Bill (Kim) of New Lenox, Michael (Lee Ann) of Winnabow, N.C., and Marilyn (Eric) Worsley of LaSalle; and 11 grandchildren, Amelia, Elena, Lucas, Zachary, Hailey, Dylan, Kyle, Kara, Jack, Eric and Rohan.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her brother Donald.

For most of her married life she tended the Auchstetter family farm with her husband. She could be seen mowing the large lawn or working in the gardens or fields. Family members have fond memories of helping her with the garden or with preparing the meals in the kitchen.

Lynda was an animal lover all her life. She especially enjoyed watching deer and birds. From growing up on the Billings farm to living on the Auchstetter farm she took care of all sorts of animals including raccoons, chickens, and calves. Later on she enjoyed watching the birds and squirrels at the feeders she kept.

Gardening and growing things was another one of Lynda’s passions. She and Robert frequented the area’s nurseries searching for new plants to add to their orchards and gardens. Family members enjoyed joining them on those excursions and ones to botanical gardens.

After Robert’s passing, Lynda moved into Mendota where she enjoyed visiting with her friends at Mendota Area Senior Services. Some of her favorite activities were playing Wii bowling, making puzzles, and playing dominoes. Lynda also visited friends in the nursing homes where she would lead the rosary for the residents.

Her greatest joy though was her children and grandchildren. She loved visiting them and hearing about their latest endeavors. She could be seen and sometimes heard at their sporting events, concerts, performances, and other important events.

Memorials may be directed to Mendota Area Senior Services or Illinois Valley Animal Rescue. Online condolences may be left at www.merrittfh.com.