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AHOSKIE – Linda Ann Clark Minton, a beloved resident of Hertford County, North Carolina, departed this life on October 30, 2024, at the age of 80. Born on January 21, 1944, in Bertie County, North Carolina, Linda spent a lifetime enriching the lives of those around her with kindness, generosity, and unwavering love.

Linda dedicated her life to nurturing her family and community. Known for her boundless energy and commitment, she volunteered for schools and churches, worked at the food pantry, and inspired young minds as both a Girl Scout and Cub Scout leader. Her home was a lively haven, affectionately remembered as the place where children and friends loved to gather. To Kimberly she was “Ma”, to Jeff she was “Mom,” and to countless others, she was fondly called “Gamba.”

Her greatest joy in life was her children and grandchildren, whom she exquisitely taught and deeply cherished. Revered as “the butterfly lady,” Linda crocheted delicate butterflies as symbols of hope and encouragement, especially for fellow cancer patients, doctors, and friends. Her love extended beyond the classroom, as she guided her grandchildren in learning to read, write, and create. Linda took immense pride in attending every graduation and game, celebrating each milestone with heartfelt devotion.

Linda’s special bond with her family was expressed through unique names she lovingly bestowed upon each child and grandchild. In her words, “They are the JOY of my life”. Her legacy of love and learning will endure in the cherished memories and hearts of her family.

Linda was a devoted member of the First Baptist Church of Ahoskie, where her faith enriched and guided her daily life.

The family extends their warmest gratitude for the love and support from friends and family. Linda’s legacy of compassion, strength, and grace will continue to inspire all who knew her. From Linda “Special thanks to my friends and family for everything they did for me during my journey.”

Linda is preceded in death by her dear parents, James Girlie Clark and Allie Mae Vaughan Clark. She is survived by the father of her cherished children, James Carlton Minton, Jr., of Elizabeth City, NC; her loving daughter, Kimberly Kirby and husband Pat of Cofield, NC; her devoted son, Jeffrey Minton and spouse Marie of Aulander, NC; and her precious grandchildren, Kayley Minton (Edward Bradley) of Ahoskie, NC; Abbey Minton (Colin Brock) of Como, NC; Patrick Kirby and spouse Amber of Bethel, NC; Dustin Kirby of Cofield, NC; and Jaxson Minton (Mady Wiechel) of Como, NC. Linda is also survived by her loving sister, Sadie Blackmon of San Diego, CA; the mother of three of her grandchildren, Wendy Minton of Como, NC; several very special close friends; many beloved cousins, nephews, granddogs, and grandcats.

The family invites friends to join them in remembrance of Linda’s vibrant life at Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service on Saturday, November 2, 2024, from 6-7:30 p.m.

A celebration of life graveside service will be held at Ahoskie Cemetery on Sunday, November 3, 2024, at 2 p.m., officiated by Pastor Scott Bauer. Honoring Linda as pallbearers are Pat Kirby, Patrick Kirby, Dustin Kirby, Jaxson Minton, Colin Brock, and Edward Bradley.

Online condolences can be made at www.garrettsykesfs.com. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service – Ahoskie Chapel, Ahoskie, NC.