Linda Lee Silverstein

                                                                       A Tribute to Linda Lee Silverstein

Today, we gather to honor and remember Linda Lee Silverstein, a wonderful person whose impact was as profound as it was far-reaching. Linda was not just a wife & and friend; she was a constant presence in the lives of so many; tirelessly giving, teaching, and inspiring. For over 41 years, she was Jerry’s loving wife, companion, and friend. To all who knew her, she was a cherished confidant, mentor, and friend.

As an educator, Linda was nothing short of extraordinary. Her passion for teaching went beyond the classroom; it was about connecting with her students and encouraging them to think beyond the lessons. She inspired them, challenged them, and made them feel seen and valued. She took her students on nature walks and student trips to share the joy of nature with them. There are generations of students whose lives she touched, countless minds she shaped and lives she changed for the better.

Teachers and administrators alike turned to Linda for her advice, which was always wise, thoughtful, and given with great care. Even while teaching full-time and volunteering she completed her master’s degree in education.

She had an uncanny ability to read a situation and offered guidance that often came straight from the heart; even when it wasn’t what we wanted to hear. But that was Linda: honest, forthright, and committed to helping others grow. Her work with her colleagues and students left a lasting imprint, and her influence can still be felt in the halls and classrooms she touched.

Linda’s devotion to others extended beyond her work in education. She was a tireless volunteer, giving her time and energy to causes she cared deeply about. Whether it was with the Friends of the Delaware County District Library, where she was a dedicated member and leader, or in her local community. Linda was always there contributing, encouraging, and building connections. Her work with the Powell Chamber of Commerce was so impactful that she was named Volunteer of the Year in 2022. Recently, the award itself was renamed in her honor as a testament to the kindness and hard work that she poured into everything she did. Her humor, creativity, and dedication always shined through. Whether attending ribbon cuttings or serving on committees.

Linda made her mark, earning the respect and admiration of everyone with whom she worked. But more than her volunteer and professional accomplishments, Linda will be remembered for her warmth, her authenticity, and the joy she brought to those around her. Linda was real. She didn’t put on airs. She didn’t shy away from speaking her mind. She knew how to enjoy life, whether it was shopping (and encouraging her friends to make purchases while rarely buying anything for herself), going to the Columbus Zoo, or spending time at the beach with her toes in the sand. She had a knack for bringing people together, making everyone feel welcome and valued. Through the "Walking Ladies" group, she forged lasting friendships, and those walks, no matter the weather, became a cherished routine that was filled with laughter, support, and deep conversations.

Linda loved nature, flowers, animals, and sunshine. She previously spent time rehabilitating wildlife, working with both large and small animals, including injured raptors, which earned her the nickname, the Raptor Lady. Her heart was as expansive as the world around her, and she found beauty in the simplest moments, whether it was a walk through a garden, or a quiet afternoon spent with those she loved. Linda’s home reflected this, especially her magical Christmas and seasonal displays. Each year, she would create a wonderland, full of lights and trees; something that brought joy to not only her but to her family, but also to friends who were lucky enough to witness it. Throughout the year, there were decorations celebrating holidays and the changing seasons.

When home, you could hear Jimmy Buffet songs throughout the house, with her singing along, and exuding sheer joy. While ill, she found Jimmy Buffet song’s uplifting and soothing in very difficult circumstances. Music brought her comfort during a very difficult illness.

Through it all, Linda’s greatest gift was the way she made others feel. She built people up with her encouragement, supported them with her genuine care, and listened with a heart full of compassion. Her sense of humor and witty expressions, like "Ya think?" and "Ain’t my circus, ain’t my monkeys," will forever live on in the memories of those who knew her. She was a true friend; one whose love and loyalty were unwavering.

As we remember Linda, we do so with gratitude for the lessons she taught us and the love she gave. She was a passionate, loyal friend. A dedicated volunteer. A compassionate teacher. A strong woman who showed up with grace and tenacity, especially in the face of life’s challenges. She was authentic, funny, and real, and she had a heart that was open to all.

Linda’s presence in our lives leaves a void, one that can never be filled. But we carry her memory with us, and we honor her by continuing to support one another, just as she supported us.

For me, her husband, the loss is even more profound as she was truly my better half. In fact, she was my better three-quarters. She was kind, smart, loving, and compassionate; pretty much all the wonderful words I can think of apply to my wife. Her smile was like sunshine, and it always made me feel better, no matter what was happening. Her laughter was contagious, and she had a way of brightening any room she was in. Her heart was filled with endless kindness. She was my person, my “ride or die,” and my absolute best friend. She was everything to me, and I miss her terribly. She knew that I loved her, since I told her so every day. She helped me see the world and people in ways that I would not have imagined. She encouraged me in my endeavors and was my biggest supporter. While it may be cliche, she really did make me a much better person.

She faced life's challenges with incredible strength and grace. She had remarkable courage and fortitude in facing the pain, distress, and sheer frustration of a terrible affliction. I was awed, every day, by her courage and resolve.

While my heart is massively heavy with sorrow, I want friends and family to find some comfort in knowing that Linda would want us to remember the joy, the love, and the moments we shared.

Linda, I love you and I miss you. All who knew you will carry on your legacy, sharing your kindness, strength, and love.