In Loving Memory of Linda Lou Prior
October 15, 1944 – August 16, 2024
It is with deep sorrow and in fond remembrance that the family shares the passing of Linda Lou Prior, who left this earthly life on August 16, 2024, at the age of 79. Born on October 15, 1944, Linda was the beloved daughter of the late Guy and Norma Jackson.
Linda’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to her family and faith. She was a devoted wife to her husband, William Howard Prior, and a cherished mother to their three sons: William Scott Prior (Tammy) of Largo, Florida; Rocky Alan Prior (Julie) of Lebanon, Tennessee; and Bradley Kreig Prior (Jillian) of Pickerington, Ohio. Linda’s legacy extends to her six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, each of whom she held dear: Carrie Gibson (Josh) and their children Evie, Reese and Zoey of Hermitage, Tennessee; Cassie Hill (Austin) and their children Eli and Charlotte of West Chester, Ohio; Austin Prior (Jennie) and their son Simon of Anderson, Indiana; Dustin Prior of Newark, Ohio; and Ansel and Hudson Prior of Pickerington, Ohio.
Linda’s journey began in a large, loving family of seven, including her siblings Guy (Janet) Jackson of Bellefontaine, Ohio, Lana (Mike) Wilgor of Wellington, Ohio, Lola Richards of DeGraff, Ohio, and Jeanette (Mike) Vaughn of Lacanto, Florida. Her parents, Guy and Norma Jackson and brothers Larry and Benny preceded her in death.
A proud graduate of Firelands High School in Oberlin, Ohio (1962), Linda’s strong work ethic was shaped by her upbringing on a fruit farm. Her commitment to supporting her family was evident early on as she aided her husband through his studies at Tri-State University (Trine) in Angola, Indiana. She often lovingly said she received a PHT (putting hubby through) degree during this time. Her caring nature was first showcased through her work as a Nurse’s Aide at Cameron Memorial Community Hospital.
As a dedicated stay-at-home mom, Linda tended to her family’s every need. She served as President of the North Elementary PTA. In the early 1980s, she took a position Lou’s Hallmark as a clerk, while volunteering with the Newark Local Schools in Licking County, Ohio. She and her husband were active in the church community, serving in building facilities, providing temporary residence for visiting youth, and hosting youth group gatherings that became cherished events. Linda’s talents extended to excellent cake decorating for anyone needing a theme-based cake, wedding cake or banquet cakes.
A move to Hudson, Ohio in 1985 opened new doors, including her role as a Library Assistant at McDowell Elementary and later as Secretary for the Media offices at Hudson High School. In 1989, while living in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Linda took on the responsibility of site selection and construction overseer of a ‘from the ground up’ four bedroom home with three car garage. It turned out fantastic because of the range of her skillset.
Upon her retirement, she returned to central Ohio, where she volunteered at the Granville/Licking Memorial Twig store, was a receptionist at the Longaberger Company headquarters and a library aid at Newark Public Library.
In her early 70s, Linda and her husband began their eventual relocation to Largo, Florida, where Linda continued her legacy of service, volunteering with therapy visits at hospitals and nursing homes alongside her beloved dog, Abbie. She also devoted time and baking skills in service to the Pastor’s Connection Group at Indian Rocks Church. Known for her exquisite cooking, keen bargain-hunting skills, and profound faith, Linda touched many lives with her kindness and dedication.
Linda’s infectious smile and laughter will remain forever in our hearts. Her profound impact on all who knew her will never be forgotten. She was a genuine saint with a heart for Christ and pointing others to Him.
Homegoing Services:
September 3rd @ 11 AM
Indian Rocks Baptist Church Student Center
12685 Ulmerton Road Largo, FL 33774
September 14th @ 11 AM -1 PM visitation
Brucker & Kishler Funeral Home
985 N 21st St. Newark, Ohio 43055
Among the sweetest of God’s creation, my precious Linda, the LOVE of my life! She left so many examples of godly love, of which I was the greatest recipient. Nearly sixty one years we were joined as one in marriage. I can only imagine the eternal joy that awaits her! 💕
Bill and family. Eddie and I extend our heartfelt love and condolences you. Linda was a shining star with the most infections smile. She will be missed by every person who knew her. May God’s peace surround you as this journey is taken. We love you in Christ. Eddie & Peggy Sapino
Aunt Linda was a sweet & precious treasure; such a joy to be around! She loved serving others and making them feel so welcome and comfortable! She loved fur babies and loved & dog sat ours many times, spoiling them rotten! 😍 Clay and I will miss her so much; we thoroughly enjoyed ever minute we spent in her company and we also loved to go thrift & antiques shopping with Aunt Linda…we had many family activities/gatherings in Florida and Ohio & we will dearly miss those. We love you Aunt Linda and we will miss you forever. You are forever etched in our hearts. God will hold you until we all see you again some sweet day!
See You Later, Aunt Linda
Some will say goodbye, while others will say,
“See you soon,” as we part ways today.
Tears may fall for your earthly form,
Aunt Linda your spirit shines, forever warm.
Aunt Linda, your legacy Ripples through time,
In the family you nurtured, so strong and sublime.
With love and care that filled the air,
Your Impact lives on, a treasure so rare.
Thank you for the life you led,
Feeding souls with the words you spread.
The Word of God, your guiding map,
The Holy Ghost dwelling inside and beside you, filling every gap.
Your boys turned to men, with hearts so grand,
Husbands of virtue, with wives hand in hand.
Amazing grandchildren, and more greats yet to come,
Your life, dear Linda, has only begun.
Forever Rippling, Creating Change,
Transforming lives, as the tides rearrange.
Though we part for now, your spirit will soar,
In our hearts and memories, forevermore.
Love and Respect
Clay and Candy Stephenson
(Your favorite niece and nephew 😎)
Uncle Bill and cousins,
Our condolences on Aunt Linda’s passing. She’ll always be remembered for her sweet smile and laugh. Praying comfort on your family.
Todd and Faith Fox family
I’ve only been coming to Indian Rocks for a short while but I wanted to pay my respects. I understand the pain of loosing a spouse, and I pray for peace and comfort to you and your family at this time.
Linda was the example of a loving and compassionate woman of God. There was always joy, happiness, care and laughter when she was around. I will always remember that last warm hug from her just a couple of weeks ago in the connection group meeting room. Heartbreaking for us who loved her but joyful for her to be with Jesus.
Dear Bill, We wanted to express our sincere condolences to you with Linda’s passing. She was a sweet and beautiful lady for sure and she will be missed by many. We are so sorry for your loss. See you when we get back to Palm Hill.