Athens - Graveside services for Linda Wilkinson, 80, of LaRue, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m., Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Post Oak Cemetery near Malakoff, Texas. Services are under the direction of Hannigan Smith Funeral Home.

Mrs. Linda Joyce Wilkinson passed away peacefully, surrounded by love, leaving behind a legacy of strength, faith, and heartfelt devotion to her family on May 4, 2025, in Athens, TX.

Linda Joyce Wilkinson was born September 30, 1944, to RJ Trammell and Joyce Gertrude (Barton) Trammell in Athens. She graduated from Malakoff High School in 1961 and worked as a telephone operator for Texaco for over 35 years. Linda lived a life marked by quiet grace, unwavering love and a fierce dedication to those she held dear.

Known affectionately as "Mom" by her daughters and "Aunt Sissy" by her nieces and nephews, Linda was a steady and guiding presence throughout her life. She cherished her roles as a devoted wife to her beloved husband Keith, a loving mother to Teressa and Joanna, and a treasured sister to Steve, Gary and Cindy. Her heart also had room for a loving cat and dog, Chloe and Dixie.

Linda had a deep appreciation for the beauty in nature. She loved watching birds - especially cardinals - and delighted in flowers, trees, and the simple peace found outdoors. Dwight Yoakam was one of her favorite singers and the song, "Islands in the Stream" by Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers held special meaning for her and Keith, a symbol of their love and shared journey together.

She was a true sports fan, cheering passionately for Texas A&M football, the Kansas City Chiefs - especially Patrick Mahomes and basketball stars like Caitlin Clark and Luka. Whether she was celebrating a touchdown or quietly praying for her family, Linda's presence made the moment feel more complete.

Though she faced challenges in life, Linda's faith never wavered. She leaned on scripture for strength, particularly Isaiah 40:31, Psalm 23:4, Philippians 4:13, and Psalm 73:26. These verses brought her comfort. She was an introvert by nature but never forgot a birthday or a prayer for those she loved. Her quiet gestures spoke volumes.

During her last year of life, Linda formed close bonds with her caregivers Leslee, Ranetta and LuLu, whose kindness and companionship meant so much to her and her family.

Linda Joyce Wilkinson will be deeply missed, but her love, faith, and memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

She is survived by her loving husband Keith Wilkinson; two children, Teresa Lynn Faulk of San Diego, California, Joanna Lynn Faulk of Larue and two brothers, Gary Trammell and wife Cindy of Athens, Steve Trammell of Cross Roads.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted to the Hannigan Smith Funeral Home Family.