Darrell W. Aud, 79, of Carmi passed away on Thursday, June 4, 2026 at his home. He was born in Brownsville, IL on January 13, 1947 the son of Thurman Ellsworth and Alma Louise (Hillyard) Aud.
Darrell graduated from Carmi Township High School in 1965. In May of 1966, Darrell entered the United States Army as an infantryman and attended basic training in Fort Riley, Kansas. He served one tour in Vietnam with Charlie Company, 3rd Battalion , 47th Infantry and Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion, 39th Infantry. Most of his time in Vietnam was spent as a machine gunner in part of the Army-Navy’s Joint Mobile Riverine Force, aka the “Brown Water Navy”, in South Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. He was honorably discharged in May of 1968. Later the same year he married Linda D. Ryan. He was employed at Whirlpool and later Continental Tire from which he retired after 35+ years.
Darrell enjoyed time spent on the golf course with his brothers and his longtime friend, Barney. He had a love for travel and cherished many cross-country road trips with his family, always preferring the scenic route. Whether exploring a new place or simply enjoying the view from his front porch, Darrell appreciated life’s simple pleasures like spending the morning with the “old man club”. He was known for his easygoing nature, woodworking projects, fondness for western television shows, and for sharing a good joke, especially the kind that cost a dollar a day. But, nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with his children, grandchildren, and his “favorite” great-granddaughter.
Darrell is survived by his wife, Linda; three children, Leslie Aud of Carmi, Jennifer (Jason) Hargrave of Mt. Carmel and Jason Aud of Carmi; two grandchildren, Malarie (Micah) Wilson and Wyatt Hargrave; a great-granddaughter, Eliza Wilson; sister-in-laws, Raynita Aud and Nancy Aud; a brother-in-law, Ronnie Branstetter; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Linda Branstetter and brothers, David Aud and Dannie Aud.
Though Darrell’s family grieves his loss, they find comfort in the countless memories and love he leaves behind.
Services for Darrell W. Aud will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Darrell’s name to White County Senior Citizens, Carmi American Legion and Coins For Cancer accepted at Campbell Funeral Home in Carmi, 609 W. Main St., Carmi, IL who is assisting with arrangements.
