Linda Kemp
Obituary

Today we celebrate the life of Linda Marie Jones Kemp-Porter, a devoted wife, bonus mom, sister, aunt, educator, woman of faith, and friend.

Born on September 27, 1945, Linda was the daughter of the late Rev. and Mrs. C.J. Jones of Ville Platte, Louisiana, and the birth daughter of Genieve Bobb Johnson of Lake Charles, Louisiana. Her roots were grounded in faith, family, and service—values she carried throughout her life.

Linda often said she had lived "a good life, though not a perfect one." Those words reflected her actions. She dedicated more than 45 years to education, answering what she believed was her calling to teach. Her classroom was more than a place of learning; it was a place where students were challenged, encouraged, and prepared for life. She believed in helping others become their best.

She treasured family and lifelong friendships. She desired love, respect, and for those she entrusted to continue caring for one another after she was gone.

She reminded those closest to her to cherish relationships, to listen to one another, to extend grace, and never to allow your kindness to be mistaken for weakness. Those simple words reveal the heart of a woman who had experienced life, learned its lessons, and wanted those she loved to walk wisely.

Linda also celebrated the joy she found in life—sharing decades of love, laughter, travel, ministry, and memories with her partner Wilson, family, and friends. She understood that while life brought challenges, it also brought immeasurable blessings.

Today, while our hearts grieve her absence, we also celebrate a life that was lived with purpose. Her influence will continue through the countless students she taught, the family she loved, the friends she cherished, and the faith she lived.

May we honor Linda best by living with faith in GOD, love and support for one another, wisdom on our tongue, forgiveness in our heart and grace in our actions, practicing —loving deeply, serving faithfully, teaching generously, and leaving every life we touch a little better than we found it.

Rest in peace Linda. Your work here is complete, but your legacy lives on us all.