Lynda Jean Dyer's Obituary
Lynda Jean Jericho Dyer, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2025, in Garland, Texas, at the age of 81. Born on December 26, 1943, in Houston, Texas, Lynda lived a life filled with passion, talent, resilience, and above all—love for others.
Lynda was the heart of her family and community, known for her radiant spirit, boundless generosity, and unwavering courage. She is survived by her devoted husband of 61 years, Raymon Dyer, with whom she shared a deep and enduring love. Together they built a life rooted in joy, faith, and unconditional devotion.
She poured her heart into raising her daughters, Gina Foster (Brian Foster) and Kristy Roland (Rodney Roland), and embraced her role as Mom with deep pride and limitless love. Later in life, she became affectionately known to her grandchildren as both “Yaya” and “Mom”. Her grandchildren—Nathanael Gold, Raelee Gold (Riv Achtenberg), Chas Gold (Anna Gold), Austin (AJ) Roland (Taylor Roland), Karlee Roland, and Jagger Roland—were the joy of her life. She also warmly welcomed her step-grandchildren—Evan, Leah, and Lindsey Foster—and treasured the arrival of her great-granddaughter, Austyn Roland, whose presence brought her heart great happiness.
To each of them, Lynda was more than a grandmother—she was a guiding light, a constant comfort, and a trusted source of unconditional love.
She is also survived by her brother Marc Vaughn and sister Terry Myers, and was preceded in death by her parents, Pinkney Jericho and Gracie Vaughn, stepfather Richard Vaughn, and sister Sharon Jericho.
Lynda graduated from San Jacinto High School in 1962, where she served as head cheerleader and was voted “Most Talented.” Her early life was filled with music and vibrant self-expression. Known throughout her life for her beautiful singing voice and guitar skills, she was the lead vocalist for The Blue Velvets from 1959 to 1963. She competed in the Miss Houston pageant, placing as third runner-up and was voted Most Talented. One of her most cherished memories came in 1962 when she won a contest that included a personal appearance and date with movie star Rock Hudson—a story she proudly shared for decades, often with a sparkle in her eye.
Lynda’s professional path led her to become Vice President of Operations at Garland Federal Savings & Loan, where she served from 1977 to 1990. But her impact extended far beyond the workplace. She was a natural leader and passionate volunteer who gave tirelessly of her time and compassion. At Baylor Medical Center in Garland, she served as a breast imaging and ambulatory patient advocate, and she dedicated over 12 years of care and presence at Children’s Medical Center, comforting patients and families in the ICU and day surgery departments.
A three-time cancer survivor—having bravely faced breast cancer, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and thyroid cancer—Lynda transformed her experience into a mission of hope. As a patient advocate and founder of New Life New Hope, a breast cancer survivor support network, she became a guiding light for countless women navigating their own journeys. Her strength gave others courage; her empathy gave them peace.
Lynda served on numerous boards and never hesitated to step into a role where help was needed. She believed deeply in the power of human connection and lived each day seeking new ways to lift others up.
To know Lynda was to be seen, heard, and loved. Her laughter, her stories, her fierce hugs, and her timeless songs will echo through generations.
A celebration of her life will be at Restland Funeral Home in the Memorial Chapel on Wednesday, August 6th at 2:00 pm where friends and family will gather to honor the remarkable legacy she leaves behind. There will be a visitation following the celebration at the Event Center at Restland.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Susan G. Komen breast cancer organization or First United Methodist Church of Garland.
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