Tiffany Neal
Linda was a very dear friend of mine for more than 40 years. I first met her when I was 16 years old and worked for her as a store clerk during a summer job. Even though I was just a teenager, she always treated me with kindness, patience, and respect.
Years later, our paths crossed again when we both worked at Buckner Children’s Home. As adults, our friendship grew into something truly special and remained strong until the very end.
Linda was the kind of friend everyone hopes to have. I could talk to her about personal and private things, and she would never judge me. She would listen with compassion, and if she had experienced something similar, she would gently let me know that she understood how I felt.
What I will remember most about Linda is the laughter. Nearly every conversation we had included jokes, funny stories, and plenty of smiles. We could find humor in almost anything. Over the years, we shared so many life experiences together. We mourned the loss of beloved pets, celebrated the births of children and grandchildren, cheered on the accomplishments of nieces and nephews, grieved the deaths of parents, faced our own health challenges, and supported one another through the highs and lows of relationships, marriage, and divorce.
During the last few years of our friendship, my family and I would visit Linda for Thanksgiving dinner. No matter what challenges either of us was facing, we always found something to laugh about. Every visit ended the same way—with a big hug, a smile, and promises that we would get together again soon for a girls’ night out, just like old times.
Although my heart is heavy with her loss, I find comfort in believing that one day we will have that girls’ night again in a place where there is no more sickness, sadness, or pain.
Thank you, Linda, for the laughter, the tears, the memories, and the countless moments of joy that came from being your friend. You touched my life in ways words can never fully express.
You will never be forgotten, and you will always hold a special place in my heart. Rest in peace.
Tiffany