Linda Sue Smitley

Linda Sue Smitley, a devoted wife, cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and faithful Christian, peacefully passed away on May 14, 2026. Born on July 5, 1958, Linda’s life was a testament to love, resilience, and unwavering faith.

She dedicated much of her professional life to the field of banking and finance before finding a long-standing role in payroll at the Miami Valley Child Development Center, where she served with dedication for over 20 years. Yet, it was not just her career that defined her; Linda’s heart belonged to her family and to her faith.

A deeply loving woman, Linda was a constant source of warmth and support to those around her. She adored her grandchildren—Christopher, Conner, Caleb, Faith, Wesley, Alexandra, Lincoln, Theodore, and Charlotte—and was never far from doting on them. Her faith was her cornerstone; a faithful Christian her entire life, Linda found great joy singing in her church choir and spreading kindness through her card ministry, sending thoughtful greetings on special occasions to brighten the lives of many.

Her courage was as remarkable as her spirit. A breast cancer survivor and a liver transplant survivor, Linda faced her health battles with grace and strength. Throughout her chemotherapy treatments, she found a beautiful way to give back by crocheting and donating over 300 blankets to the NICU, bringing comfort and warmth to the tiniest of fighters. Her creativity and compassion left an indelible mark on every life she touched.

Linda’s family was her world. She shared 48 years of marriage with her loving husband, Robert Smitley. Together, they raised three wonderful daughters—Kimberly, Kathleen (married to Carl), and Emily (engaged to Michael)—who, along with their children, form a legacy of love and connection that will forever honor Linda’s memory. She was also a beloved sister to Paul (Joanna), Patti (Gene), and Bobby (Sue). Though she was preceded in death by her parents, Alvin and Lucille Houck, her brother James, and her nephew Alexander, Linda’s spirit and the love she cultivated within her family circle remain vibrant and enduring.

In addition to her immediate family, Linda’s life was enriched by a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends who all knew her as a shining light—steady, nurturing, and full of grace.

Linda Sue Smitley’s journey was one marked by an extraordinary blend of strength, faith, and kindness. Her legacy is ensconced in the hearts of those she loved and the countless lives she touched with her generosity. While her physical presence has moved on, the love she so freely gave continues to resonate, a precious gift and a guiding light for all who were lucky to know her.

A visitation will be held from 9:00am to 10:00am on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at Greenmont Oak Park Church, 1921 Woodman Dr., in Kettering, with Linda's service starting at 10:00am. Linda will be laid to rest at Miami Valley Memory Gardens.

To share a memory of Linda or to leave a special message for her family, please see our Guest Book below.