Edwards County Circuit Judge, The Honorable Michael Joseph Valentine, 43, of Albion

Edwards County Circuit Judge, The Honorable Michael Joseph Valentine, 43, passed away on November 5, 2024, at his residence in Edwards County, Illinois.

Michael earned his law degree at Southern Illinois University.  He was elected State’s Attorney in Edwards County, Illinois, serving 8 years before being elected Circuit Judge for Edwards County.  He was a Chicago EMT prior to becoming a lawyer.  He was a member of the Albion Fire Department, Heritage Lodge 356, and the Albion Moose Lodge.  Michael was a member of the Illinois State Bar Association, the Illinois Judges Association, and was also a Drug Court Judge.  He was of Catholic Faith.   He will be remembered as a good and fair judge, who helped many he served.   Most of all, he was a loving son and a loving father.

He is survived by his parents,  Mr. and Mrs. Michael (Marilyn) Valentine Sr.; his children, daughter Mia Rose Valentine and son Michael Joseph Valentine III; an uncle, Robert Valentine; and an aunt, Carol Summerfeld; and 3 cousins.   He also leaves behind many in his community, colleagues, co-workers and friends who cherish his memory.

Visitation for Michael J. Valentine will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at the House of Prayer in Albion, Illinois.  Funeral services will be held in Orland Park, Illinois at a later date.

Ingram Meridith Funeral Home of Albion is honored to assist the Valentine family with arrangements.