Linda Bee Richards, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, peacefully departed this world on December 25th, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love and warmth that will forever be etched in our hearts.
For 58 years, she sailed hand-in-hand with her loving husband Neil, navigating life’s currents with grace and humor. A devoted mother to her daughter Vandy (Jurgen) and her son Devin (Linda). As a grandmother, she reveled in the love and laughter shared with her grandchildren Alec, Brittany, and Rebecca.
Linda grew up on the shores of Lake Erie in Vermilion, Ohio, where her home was surrounded on all four sides by water, leading to her passion of being an excellent sailboat skipper. She graduated from Miami University of Ohio with a teaching certificate in 1963, where she met the love of her life Neil. Linda taught elementary school starting in Ohio, then Pennsylvania, and continued this calling after she and Neil moved to their forever home in Pittsford, NY. Taking a break from teaching, she focused on raising their two children, Vandy and Devin, all the while staying active in the community by leading the local Girl Scout Troop, spearheading the local Girl Scout Cookie drive, participating in ΣΣΣ sorority events, and singing and playing bells in local choirs. Linda returned to the Pittsford school system as a swim instructor and teacher’s aid until retirement in 2005. In their golden years, Linda and Neil found a second home in Tucson, AZ, where they led an active social life. Until the end, Linda was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was an avid reader, a passionate football fan, loved to sing and play games of all kinds, and valued her many friendships from all aspects of life. She cherished those bonds of camaraderie that enriched her journey and will be deeply missed.
A memorial service will be planned in the spring at the First Presbyterian Church of Pittsford and the family suggests that memorial contributions may be made to your local animal shelter. Online condolences may be made at www.rochestercremation.com/rochester-obituaries.
Peter and I are so sad to hear of Linda’s passing. It was great being with her at Vandy’s wedding celebration. We lived near Linda & Neil for 5 years on Cullen Run—she & I often talked across the yard. Vandy and our daughter Suzanne rode the school bus together. Linda a good & special person.
We’re thinking of you all.
I met Linda when my sister and brother in law moved in next to them. She treated me like family from day one. Linda and Neil played such a huge part in my sister ‘s family. So sorry for her family’s loss. My condolences to Neil, Vandy and Devon and their families.
Vandy and family: Sincerest condolences to you and the family. May the Lord and happy memories bring you all joy and peace during this difficult seasons and always. Love and blessings, Venice
I went through high school with Linda and considered her a good friend. She always had an effervescent personality. I am sure the entire 1958 graduating class of Vermilion High School will share my sadness at her parting.
Linda and I were friends and neighbors during high school in Vermilion, Ohio. Always cheerful even during the early morning ride to school with her teacher mom. I’m sure she will be missed by family and friends.
Neil and I worked together for over thirty years: first at Kodak and then as one of my business partners after his retirement. No matter what the situation, Linda was always there. I felt like family in their home. It was not hard to see what devoted parents they were, having had Linda there to calmly deal with whatever issues she encountered. Speaking of issues, their years of health problems brought Linda and Neil even closer together, as they became life supports to each other. Their dedication to each other was truly amazing. My wife, Barbara, and I will miss Linda very much. We will always be there for Neil as he walks a more lonely road. We wish him improving health and many more years to enjoy hid children and grandchildren.
Very sorry for your loss, Neil.
Such warm memories Sondra and I have of Linda. The times we spent together with her and Neil in Rochester and Pittsford in the 60’s and early 70s were highlights of our years in upstate New York. Still remember helping them move to their home. (Boy, did Neil have lots of stuff.) They were truly a couple to be admired.
Our thoughts and condolences to Neil and family at this time. Al Wuthnow
Remembering our friend Linda Bee with great fondness.
Neil, Vandy and Devin, Jeffrey and I were so sorry to learn of Linda’s passing. What a warm, loving woman and fun too. We have a lot of memories from the 30+ years of GAMIS trips where Linda was there ‘supporting’ Neil and his contributions to the printing industry. Fun times and lots of laughs. She certainly will be missed. Our deepest condolences.
I’m very sorry to hear of Linda’s passing. Although I hadn’t seen Linda for many years, I remember her fondly. I hope you are able to find comfort among family and close friends. Beth Wells Bechly (your second cousin, Doris Widdowson Wells’ daughter)