Linda Marie Williams (nee Lindsey)

Linda Marie Williams, 50, passed away May 30, 2012.

Born in Akron, Ohio on July 13, 1961, Linda passed away after battling ovarian cancer for nine years. As she said, “I have cancer, cancer didn’t have me.” A graduate of North High School in 1979, Linda retired from Becker Pumps with 32 years of service.

Linda was the daughter of Mayford Harley Lindsey (deceased) and survived by her mother, Delores Simmons (Zane); and brother, Todd Irons (Carey). Brother, Tommy Irons passed away in 2005.

Linda is survived by her husband, Gary; daughter, Lindsey; son, James; and family dog, Pumpkin.  Married September 18, 1981, Linda quoted, “Gary was the love of my life, and we both felt as parents we were partners with the best family anyone could ask for. Lindsey and James are an on-going joy in our lives and they all met my health challenges through the years with unequaled spirit and support.”

Additionally, she leaves father-in-law, W.E. Williams (Reene, deceased 1989); sisters-in-law, Sandra Harvey (Glenn), Shirley Swick (John), and Susan Orion; and brothers-in-law, Larry Williams (Shelia) and Dave Williams (Becky).

Anyone who knew Linda can attest that she lived a full, rich life making every minute count. She enjoyed many trips to Disney World with her family, was a world class shopper at garage sales and flea markets, an absolute expert at finding Hallmark ornaments for her Christmas displays, and always found time to take road trips with “the girls”. Linda was involved with Springfield Band and Band Boosters as a dedicated volunteer who enjoyed the work immensely, and reminds the band kids to ask their parents to volunteer to help with Thursday night bingo activities.

Decorating at all holidays, but especially at Christmas was a highlight of her year. Her home and yard were a magical celebration of the Christmas season. Hosting an annual Christmas open house for family and friends was a yearly tradition.

Linda asked that we pass along her thanks to all her friends and family far and near for all the support and prayer given to her and her loved ones. She quotes, “No words can mark the love, support, and hands-on care received from my husband, my mom, and my kids, but thank you, thank you.” An extra heartfelt thank you from her goes out to her “special friends”, Eva Bell, Eileen Freeze, Holly Reed, Tracey Hershey, Theresa Heaton and Tracey Campbell for all you did above and beyond the meaning of friendship. And to her special sisters-in-law, Susan, Carey and Sandy, thank you for your love and support in the care and feeding of me and my family. Another special thank you to the Justin T. Rogers Hospice Care Center staff and her home hospice nurse, Patty Latham for all the loving care offered.

Memorial Service will be held Saturday 4 p.m., at Hopkins Lawver Funeral Home, 547 Canton Rd., Akron 44312, with Pastor Larry Baldridge officiating. Friends may call at the funeral home from 1 p.m. until the service at 4 p.m. Saturday.  Family and friends are invited to share stories and refreshments at Springfield Baptist Church, 1920 Krumroy Rd., Akron 44312 immediately following the service.