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Heaven welcomed a beautiful angel on Friday, March 12, 2021. Linda Ann Richards was born in Newark, Ohio on July 4, 1956 to David and Janetta (Silknitter) Richards. Linda was the second of six daughters. She was a beloved daughter and sister, the “favorite” aunt to her nieces and nephews, and a friend to all.
Linda graduated from Larc Lane School, worked at Lott Industries and was a talented artist at Shared Lives Studio. While participating in Special Olympics and other activities, she earned many medals and trophies in track and especially bowling. Our family always enjoyed bowling with Linda. While a Girl Scout, she was proud to show off her sash with the badges she had earned. Her talent in the area of arts and crafts was amazing. Years ago, several of her paintings were selected to be used by a national organization for Downs Syndrome. Whether painting, knitting, weaving potholders, making latch hook rugs, or creating ceramics or homemade cards, Linda’s creativity was undeniable. Our family will always cherish our memories of Linda calming the fussy babies, entertaining her nieces and nephews, playing (and winning) card games, her spaghetti, dancing and singing her Happy Birthday songs to each of us.
It was evident that Dad had a special place in his heart for Linda. She loved to make him laugh, challenge him in UNO, and show him that she could teach herself to ride a bike! But he sure loved riding the bicycle built for two with her … and taking her on vacations and trips to visit relatives in Pennsylvania and Florida. Mom was proud of all her family, but none more so than of Linda! The two of them were bonded together in love, companionship and adventures.
Our family is so thankful for the shining example our parents were to us and for so many. Their love, patience and guidance provided the pathway for Linda to share her smile, kindness and love wherever her journey took her. One only needed to take a walk with Linda around the Grove Bel neighborhood in Sylvania, Ohio to realize Linda’s outgoing personality had touched the lives of many. In return, Linda’s life was enriched by her family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, staff and all who were blessed to know her.
Linda is survived by her five sisters and their families: Nancy (Jim) Decker; Laura (Justin) Beach, Landon and Lorelei; Matt (Brittany) Decker, and Quinn; and Steven (Kelly) Decker, Rhett, James, and Allie. Teresa Joseph; Melissa (Travis) Parno; Jessica Joseph, Kaylin and Bentley; and Kevin (Kiersten) Joseph. Tammy (Dave) Dorner; Megan (Jeff) Marvin, Nick Dorner (Katy); and Heather Dorner. Kim Lewis (Jim), and Lauren Lewis. Kris (Aaron) Zombo; Cody Booth (Laura) and Kaci; Ben Booth (Shannon), and Audrey; Aaron (Brooke), Payton and Taytum; Amanda Booth (Charlie), Bentlee and Layla; and Gionna Zombo. Linda is also survived by many aunts and cousins.
Thank you to the staff and friends at River Crossings and at Manahan for your care and support these past few years.Those wishing to offer memorials are asked to consider Manahan or River Crossings by donating to Josina Lott Foundation c/o Manahan, 120 S. Holland-Sylvania Rd., Toledo, OH 43615.
Visitation will be held Sunday, March 21 from 2-5 pm. Services will be Monday, March 22 at 11:00 at Reeb Funeral Home, Sylvania, OH. Interment to follow at Toledo Memorial Park. Online condolences may be offered at reebfuneralhome.com
To send flowers to Linda's family, please visit our floral store.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Linda Ann Richards, please visit our floral store.