Linda Kay Garner

Linda Kay Garner of Carlyle passed from the arms of her beloved grandson, Jake, into the arms of Jesus on Wednesday, January 8,2025. 

Linda was born in Breese, Illinois on August 17,1951 to her recently widowed mother, Mrs. Carrie (Turner) Garner. Linda’s father, Jerral C. Garner of Grand Prairie, Texas passed away in an industrial oil accident before Linda’s birth. Carrie later married Richard Brink of Carlyle who raised Linda as his own. 

Linda was a 1969 graduate of Breese High School and a retired dietitian who selflessly served countless senior citizens breakfast and lunch for over three decades. 

In addition to her parents, Linda had three brothers Jerral Garner: Stanley “Steve” Garner (both of Beckemeyer, IL.) and Michael Garner of Corpus Christi, TX. and one sister, Carolyn Wuebbles, also of Beckemeyer, who entered heaven before her. Also waiting for her at heaven's gates was her beloved son, Ryan Eugene Berry. Linda is survived by one daughter, Rebecca (Christopher Talles) of Rockford Illinois, Two brothers, John (Carolee) Brink of Lufkin, TX. and Mark (Randy) Brink of Champagne, IL. Linda leaves behind two grandsons, Jake (Ashley) Berry of Carlyle, IL. and Thomas (Autumn) Hobbs III of Salem, IL. two granddaughters, Caitlyn (Khalid) Hobbs and Chyna (Quan) Hobbs both of Rockford, IL. In addition to seven great grandchildren, including her beloved Elyzabeth Ryan Marie Cook, Linda leaves behind niece and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and even great-great nieces and nephews, numerous prayer partners, friends, and neighbors who will miss her presence. 

Linda loved passionately and was quick to tell anyone about Jesus, often without even having to mention His name. Acceptance and kindness were available for all who encountered her. Linda loved music from the Beatles to the BeeGees from the BeeGees to Bob Seger and from Bob Seger to Pearl Jam. Linda sang along. She loved nice cars. But mostly she loved her nuclear and extended families with all of her heart. And goodness, she had a lot of heart to share. 

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at Nordike Funeral Home in Carlyle with Rev. Jason McIntosh officiating. Burial will follow at Carlyle Township Cemetery. 

Visitation will be held from 4:00 until 8:00 PM on Monday, January 13, 2025 and again on Tuesday from 9:00 AM until the time of services.

Memorial made in memory of Linda are suggested to the Clinton County Humane Society, Wounded Warriors Project, St. Jude Children's Hospital, or Autism Speaks and will be received at Nordike Funeral Home, 740 Fairfax Street, Carlyle, IL 62231 or by following the links below.