Linda Dianne Williams Johnston Adkins Messick Gordon, a name so grand it could only belong to someone with an equally grand spirit, has completed her earthly journey on July 5, 2025, in Dothan, Alabama. Born on March 7, 1950, in the heart of Andalusia, Alabama, Linda’s infectious enthusiasm for life touched all who knew her. She was a daughter, a sister, a wife, a mother, a grandmother, a friend, and a cherished member of her community.
Linda’s life was one of radiant love and boundless energy. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Wesley Dean Williams, Sr. and Betty Boggan Williams; her devoted husband, Aaron Gordon; her son, Gregory Johnston; her brother, Wesley D. Williams, Jr.; her sister-in-law, Robin Williams, and brother-in-law, Roy Gordon. Her spirit lives on in her daughters, Stacy Johnston-Kuta (Stephen) and Kelly Ebarb (Joshua); her grandchildren, Haley Hutchinson (Ray), Keygan Ebarb, and Jase Ebarb; her sister, Beverly Cook (Dennis); brother, Gary Williams; daughter-in-law, Traci D Butler Wolfe; stepson, David Gordon; stepdaughter, Sandra Boyette (Derald); and in-laws, Lois Gordon, Ray Gordon, Nathan Gordon (Linda), and Buddy Gordon (Marilyn). Her best friends, Pep Elmore and Sarah Romano, also hold dear the memory of Linda’s vibrant presence.
Linda’s journey was marked by her dedication to her craft. After studying at Lurleen B. Wallace (LBW) Community College in Selma for cosmetology in 1969, she went on to a fulfilling career, retiring from Pep’s Beauty Shop after 35 years. As a skilled hairdresser, she found joy in every interaction, her salon becoming a hub of community and laughter. Linda was a “people person” not just in her own words, but in every interaction, every hug, and every smile that made you feel like the most important person in the world.
Her Christian faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her through every season with grace and gratitude. Linda’s interests were as colorful and varied as her personality. She adored the freshness of spring, the beauty of orchids, roses, and lilies, and the creative expression found in crafts. A collector of recipes, she relished cooking and planning events, especially Thanksgiving, where her talent for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere shone. Decorating the Christmas tree was a cherished tradition, each ornament a reflection of her love for family and friends.
Linda found her sanctuaries in the places she loved, from the tranquil shores of Lake Seminole at her sister Bev’s place to the joyful gatherings at ‘Our Place,’ the venue for Thanksgiving celebrations. She cherished the peaceful moments at Hardridge Creek on Lake Eufaula, the laughter around Stacy’s pool, and the serene beauty of Kelly’s front yard. Above all, Maggie Valley held a special place in her heart.
Her life was a testament to the power of love and the joy of living fully. Linda believed her life was immensely blessed by God and lived with the assurance that a heavenly home awaited her. Her parting words to us encapsulate her essence: “Life has been such a gift. My time on earth has been a gift, and I opened each gift, each day and found joy everywhere! The people I loved, the pets I loved, the homes I loved, the places I loved, the music I loved, and the lessons I learned is all inside my soul. My life was made ‘grand’ because of y’all! I’ll rest now, and I’ll see you when I see you!”
A Celebration of Life will be held in her honor at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, July 20, 2025, at the old STO building, 2438 Ross Clark Circle. Come one, come all, and remember to bring your best Linda story – she would have loved that.
