MURPHYSBORO – Linda Worthen, 67, of Murphysboro, passed away at 12:45 pm, Friday, September 4, 2026, at Memorial Hospital in Carbondale.

Linda was born in Murphysboro on August 7, 1959, the daughter of Harvey and Doris (Replogle) Castlebery. She married John T. Worthen, Sr. on November 15, 1986, at Camp Creek Baptist Church. He preceded her in death on November 13, 1993.

Linda was a retired operator from Ameren in Grand Tower and was a member of the Paul Stout American Legion Post #127 in Murphysboro. Above all, Linda believed in caring for family and those close to her, and in taking pride in what one had worked hard to achieve. No matter who you were, there was always a place for you at Linda’s kitchen table-whether for a cup of coffee or one of her memorable meals, often made with ingredients freshly picked from her garden. She loved gardening and took great pride in canning and preserving food, a skill she was happy to pass along to her children. Linda also loved time at the lake. Few things brought her more joy than catching a fish, especially alongside her children and grandchildren.

Her grandchildren were the highlight of Linda’s life, and her love and devotion to them were unmatched. She cherished baking cookies, drawing together at the kitchen table, making up silly songs, and sneaking them snacks when their parents were not looking. Time with her grandchildren was among her most treasured gifts.

Linda is survived by two sons, Creed (Valarie) Worthen of Murphysboro and Nathan Wachsnicht of Murphysboro; five grandchildren, Adaline and Hannah Worthen and Ivan, Rowen, and Aiden Wachsnicht; brother, Rick Castlebery of Murphysboro; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Lynette and Paul Penrod; numerous nieces, nephews, and close cousins.

Linda was also preceded in death by her parents and sister-in-law, LeJeana Castlebery.

Funeral service will be at 11:00 am, Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at Wilson’s Funeral Home, Ava, with Rev. Jay Holden officiating. Burial will follow at Tower Grove Cemetery, Murphysboro. Visitation will be held at Wilson’s Funeral Home, Ava, where friends may call on Wednesday from 9 am until 11 am. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you plant a perennial, tree, or another favorite plant in Linda’s honor. She would have loved nothing more than knowing you were enjoying something you grew yourself. Linda was also passionate about the work of Shriners Children’s Hospital; memorial donations may be made in her name. Linda would want you to come as you are.