Linda Kay Smith was born on September 30, 1938 in South Bend, IN to Ransom M. Phillips and Kathryn E. (Scott-Phillips) Johnson. Raised in Auburn, IN and a graduate of Auburn HS, Linda married the love of her life, Gene A. Smith, on November 4, 1956, recently celebrating their 65th wedding anniversary. She passed away after a well fought battle with cancer on November 17, 2021 with her family by her side.
Linda and Gene raised four children, who were a great source of pride for her. She loved nothing more than being a wife, mother and homemaker. She was a talented seamstress, sewing countless prom and bridesmaid dresses, twirling and band costumes, as well as sport coats and ties for Gene. Linda made every birthday special for her family, decorating creative and beautiful birthday cakes for each throughout the year. Linda was proud of each of her children who graduated from college, moving onto successful careers. As the children married, she eagerly awaited the arrival of grandchildren, being blessed with seven. Linda and Gene enjoyed following their grandchildren through dance recitals and sporting activities. Recently, Linda received a new title of Great Grandmother and was so in love with her new great granddaughter.
Linda was preceded in death by both of her parents and very recently, her youngest son Brian. She is survived by her loving husband, Gene, children Elaine (Richard) Vaughan, Renee (David) Mertz, Brad (Amy) Smith and daughter-in-law, Karri Smith; seven grandchildren Morgan (Trent) Jackson, Kylie (John) Chrustowski, Molly (Jake) Stevens, Megan Smith, Randy Smith, Olivia Smith, Ethan Smith and great granddaughter Zoey Chrustowski. Linda also has two surviving sisters, Cindy (Pat) Kohne and Sandy Crosley.
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