Linda Sharp Persall, born on September 9, 1944, in Florence, Alabama, passed away on December 21, 2024. Linda spent her childhood as a spirited tomboy on Duncan Avenue, often seen in dungarees, plaid shirts, and suspenders. She attended Gilbert Elementary, Appleby Junior High, and graduated from Coffee High School in 1962. During her time at Florence State University (UNA), she blossomed into a graceful and confident woman.
After marrying, Linda moved to Huntsville, Alabama, where she dedicated herself to raising her two children, Lesley Posey Burnette (Darryl) and Kenneth Lee Posey. Her professional journey included roles as an administrative assistant and legal secretary, but she truly thrived as a successful toilet paper salesperson for Valley Supply Company, her Florence based family business. In 1978, she married Harry Vance Persall, and together they established a similar business in Huntsville. In 1985, they relocated to a home on the water in St. Florian, Alabama, furthering their commitment to Valley Supply Company.
A devoted community member, Linda joined the Florence Alabama Rotary Club, where she served as president and was honored with a Paul Harris Fellowship. Her faith was a guiding force in her life. She actively participated in each of her church homes, particularly with the youth at First Christian Church in Huntsville, in leadership roles at North Wood United Methodist in Florence, and ultimately finding a loving home at Pleasant Hill Church of Florence.
After selling their businesses, Linda and Vance embraced retirement. Linda cherished time spent at the beach, traveling to Colorado in an RV full of friends and family, attending summer rodeos, and wildly spoiling her grandchildren. Her commitment to family was paramount, and she encouraged her family to commit as strongly as she did to maintain those connections. Linda also had a passion for shopping and beautiful things, leaving a void in many local stores.
Despite facing significant health challenges in her final years, Linda’s remarkable will to live allowed her to overcome many obstacles, extending her time with loved ones. She was a beloved friend, known for her ability to forge lasting relationships and uplift those around her. As an only child, Linda shared a special bond with her parents, Jewel (Quillen) and Frank Sharp, who preceded her in death. She is now reunited with her precious granddaughter Kate; it is likely they are shopping for bling and eating crab claws. In addition to her husband and children, Linda is survived by her grandson John Wendell Burnette II, his wife Katelin (Bundy), and her great-grandchildren Hadley May and Tripp. We wanted to add “and also her best friend…” but that would cause a fight.
Linda’s memorial service is being planned, please see greenviewmemorial.com for details. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions in memory of Linda to Merrimack Hall, in order to provide arts education to people with disabilities (https://merrimackhall.com/donate-online).
