Linda passed away on November 12, 2025. Born on January 3, 1941, in Tishomingo County, Linda was the cherished daughter of the late Hollis and Tilda Hester. She was a proud graduate of the class of 1958 from Holcut School. A proud alumna of Memphis State University in the Class of 1981 Linda’s enjoyed the knowledge of learning and was proud to have achieved 4 degrees, two of which were Master’s Degrees.
Linda’s remarkable career spanned over 40 years, during which she served with distinction in various agencies of the United States Government. Her journey began with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), where she worked in both Washington D.C. and Memphis, TN. Linda played a significant role in pivotal moments in history, contributing to investigations surrounding the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Her commitment to public service continued as she took on the role of Internal Auditor with the Social Security Administration, and later, she reached the esteemed position of Assistant Comptroller with the 5th District of the Army Corps of Engineers, where she was involved in the Tennessee Tombigbee Waterway project.
After retiring, Linda returned to her roots in Iuka and later settled in Tishomingo. A member of Iuka Baptist Church, Linda found joy and solace in her faith and the fellowship of her church family.
Linda was not only a dedicated professional but also a passionate traveler. She had a deep appreciation for history and sought to explore all 50 state capitals, achieving her goal of visiting 26, including the beautiful states of Hawaii and Alaska. Her love for learning extended to visiting Presidential Libraries across the country, where she immersed herself in the stories of leadership and legacy.
In addition to her parents, Linda was preceded in death by siblings, Junior M Hester, and Wilma Dean Booker; and J.O. Southward Jr., the love of her life.
Linda is survived by her brother, Terry Hester of Iuka, MS; sisters, Chestine Lambert of Iuka, MS and Peggy Wilson of Escondido, CA; 5 nephews and 6 nieces; and a host of other family and friends.
Special thank you to Sanctuary Hospice House in Tupelo and to all the caregivers for their wonderful care of Linda.
Visitation is scheduled for Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 11:00 P.M. until 1:00 P.M. at Iuka Baptist Church in Iuka, and the funeral at 1:00 P.M. officiated by Bro. Johnny Hancock.
Pallbearers include Jason Cutshall, Brandon Edwards, Tate Cutshall, John Wilson, Jerry Wilson, Lance Heavener Jr., and Doug Heavener.
Online condolences can be left at www.memorialcorinth.com
Memorial Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.
