Linda Diane (Williams) Smith

Linda Diane Smith, age 76, passed from this world too soon, on October 26, 2024, at University Hospital in Columbia, Missouri.  Linda’s passing was peaceful, she was surrounded by her loving family, and her strong faith sustained her to the end.  Linda was born August 16, 1948, in Marshall, Missouri, to the late John Edward and Anna Louise (Breshears) Williams.  Linda was a member of the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod.  

Linda loved children, and when she and her loving husband Rick had their son Marty, they decided they needed a bigger family to fill Linda’s large heart.  Linda was a mom to 27 foster children, adopting her beautiful and cherished daughter, Cherie Diane, in 1981.  Linda was a fierce mom, who would wipe the floor with anyone who dared to stand in the way of her children’s goals.  Linda and Rick relished their family life for many years, and when they lost their treasured Cherie, who left this earth at the tender age of 17, they mourned.

Linda loved retirement!  Her email signature “Retired and Loving it!” said it perfectly.  Linda was an expert at crochet, and she enjoyed creating beautiful handmade, beaded jewelry, which she frequently gave away; a testament to her love of sharing her creations with admiring friends and family.  One of Linda’s favorite things was travel.  In retirement, Linda and Rick purchased their dream RV, and they enjoyed many trips to California and elsewhere in the western United States.  In 2012, Linda and Rick moved to Anaheim, California, near one of Linda’s favorite places - Disneyland.  Linda and Rick would nightly watch the Disneyland fireworks, and they visited the “Happiest Place on Earth,” whenever they could. 

Linda and Rick adopted many “fur babies,” throughout the years, enjoying the companionship and love of many wonderful dogs.  Linda loved tech; she always had the latest iPhone, iPad, new gadget – if it was new tech, Linda got it, learned it, and became an expert at it.  Linda’s love of amusement parks and roller coasters was epic!  Linda many times accompanied Marty and his buddies to “Worlds of Fun,” and to their delight, and surprise, Linda, without any hesitation, went on every single ride!  A “Cool Mom,” for sure! 

Linda is survived by her husband, Rick; son, Marty Smith, and his wife Sally Smith; brother, Kenny Williams and his wife Mary Hains, and grandson, Ehren Smith.  As noted above, Linda was preceded in death by her daughter, Cherie Diane Smith.

A Celebration of Linda’s life will be held at a later date.

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