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Linda Vaught Obituary
Linda was born in Redding, California to Dorothy and Willard Eaton on March 31, 1955.
She graduated Enterprise High School where she was valedictorian in 1973. Linda created her own major: Alternatives for Youths and Families Through Guidance and Counseling at UC Davis where she graduated with highest honors in 1977. While a university student she was instrumental in opening the first battered women's shelter in Davis. She worked in group homes for emotionally disturbed children until 1985. She earned her Masters of Social Work at CSU, Sacramento in 1985. Shortly thereafter she became a child welfare social worker for San Joaquin County where she specialized in working with sexually abused children. In 1987, she became the youngest Social Worker Supervisor in San Joaquin County. Linda became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 1988 and used her skills to counsel sexually abused children. She returned to Redding in 1990 to take a position as a Social Worker Supervisor for Shasta County Children's Protective Services. For the last 10 years, Linda supervised the Shasta County Adoptions Agency where she successfully promoted permanency and forever families for older youth and post adoptive services for families. Under her leadership the Agency received the Congressional Angels in Adoptions award in 2003. Linda was an inspiring leader in her field. She was loved and respected by those who shared her same vision and commitment to children.
Linda was diagnosed with cancer in February, 2009. She continued to work at Shasta County adoptions until her illness required she retire in 2010. Throughout her life Linda was an avid horse woman and outdoor enthusiast.
Linda died at home surrounded by loving family and friends on October 2, 2010.
She is survived by her daughter Melanie age 10, who was her pride and joy and her loving husband Gary, her devoted sister Karen, her brother Steve, her Uncle and Aunt Art and Marge Jessup; and numerous loving nieces, nephews and cousins.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Linda Vaught Second Chance Scholarship.
Checks for the Scholarship fund should be made to Lilliput Children's Services noting the Linda Vaught Scholarship and sent to Lilliput Children's Services, 1651 Response Rd. Ste 300, Sacramento, CA 95815.
The funeral will be Saturday October 9th at 10:00 am at Allen & Dahl's in Palo Cedro
(21853 Topland Drive).
Please sign the guestbook at http://obituaries.redding.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Linda Vaught
Wanda Lamb
September 30, 2022
She will live in our hearts forever. We cherish the time she and Gary stayed with us, in our home, during her illness. Love last forever, and you were loved.
Maryjane Mathis
December 20, 2010
12-2010
As I opened my ornament box to decorate our Christmas tree, right on top I noticed two ornaments from last year. Both were from Linda – one a miniature homemade gingerbread house with my name on it signed by her and Melanie. The other was a Mickey Mouse Head from Disneyland. We both loved Disneyland and as I hung the small decoration, I smiled.
Beyond gingerbread houses and Mickey, Linda and I shared a passion for the profession of Social Work and for children. When I was feeling insignificant, she was the voice of encouraging words in my head telling me to believe in myself. She was a strong advocate for children and fearless in expressing her opinions to the leaders in our world.
I appreciated Linda’s commitment to her family. Melanie and Gary were the loves of her life. She knew at her core that Gary loved her, and in today’s world where often people wonder, she was confident.
It is a difficult thing to learn to live and work without someone who is so much a part of what I do…a part that helps me feel strong, confident and complete. I promised her I’d do my best.
Maryjane Mathis
Cherry Vantiger
October 31, 2010
Dear Gary and Melanie,
After reading the guest book and attending Linda's memorial service, the one thing that I am sure of is that Linda loved you both very much. I regret not getting to know her better. Her memory will live on in the hearts of many because of her kindness.
May God bless Linda and welcome her home.
We love you both,
Barry and Cherry
Jon Kinsting
October 28, 2010
Linda was a kind and caring person. While she was a quiet and unassuming individual, her work, the lives she touched, and her genuine love for others spoke volumes about what a beautiful person she was. Her devotion to her job, children in need, and her family was both admirable as well as inspiring. Linda will always be in our hearts. We will miss her greatly.
Love,
Jon, Cindy, and Brandon Kinsting
Nancy Edwards
October 27, 2010
Dear Gary and Melanie,
Linda was a special person and wonderful friend. My friendship with Linda began when we were roommates at UC Davis. She was always fun, upbeat, generous, and caring. She was an excellent student: I remember her up late at night, dressed in the blue caftan that she had made, fueled with Tang (beverage of astronauts and Linda), typing away at a term paper on her typewriter. She was unique and creative: when she moved back and forth from Redding to school, she would packed Hector, her car, by emptying her dresser drawers directly into the car-- no boxes needed, filling every nook and cranny up to the ceiling. She lived life to the fullest: in winter she arranged her classes so she could go skiing as often as possible, and she loved riding horses, watching sunsets, listening to music, and celebrating holidays and life in general. Most importantly, in college and throughout her life, she had her priorities straight: people always came first for Linda. She was always there to listen if someone needed to talk, offering sound advice, and helping sort out what really mattered.
After we graduated, Linda, Janet and I kept contact, getting together when we could for dinner, hikes, or a day at the beach. We celebrated together at our weddings and shared the joy of the arrival of our children. In Whitmore, Linda gave my children their first rides on a horse and their first taste of s'mores. The last time we were all together as a group, Linda and Gary had just become Melanie's parents and they were overjoyed. It was as if everything in Linda's life had led up to being Gary's wife and Melanie's mother. She was so happy!
As distance and obligations separated us, we saw each other less often, but still felt close. I miss her greatly. I know she touched many lives and made this world a better place. My life has been much richer for having known her.
Love,
Nancy Edwards
Karen Nystrom
October 20, 2010
I knew Linda for a very long time...back to when she and Gary were dating. Linda was not only my sister-in-law but my friend. I always enjoyed and looked forward to seeing Linda. She had a lot of passion about her family and her work. I remember how much she loved
Disneyland, fireworks, vacations, visiting with family and friends, etc.
Gary and Melanie - not only would Linda talk about how much she loved the both of you. But her eyes would light up as she talked about you or watched you.
Please know that I am here for both of you.
I will miss Linda very much.
Brad and Barbee Seiser
October 15, 2010
Linda will forever be an "Angel in Adoptions". Through her extraordinary intellect,spirit, drive and compassion she always looked to find what was missing, that if provided, would cause a breakthrough for Shasta County's children who needed a forever home. She was an innovator who knew what had to be done and used the power of her being to make it happen. Her legacy lives on in the children and families she touched and the dedicated social workers that carry on her work. While Linda will be greatly missed, she will never be forgotten.
Janet Petersen
October 15, 2010
Dear Gary and Melanie,
I met Linda when we were incoming freshmen in the dorms at UCD. Linda, Nancy and I became roommates and best friends and remained so for 37 years. I have so many memories from our college days. For example, Linda didn’t particularly like getting up early for 8 am classes. In one history class I diligently went to every early morning lecture, taking the midterm and an early final. Linda never made it to the first few lectures and forgot to drop the class. So at the end of the quarter she asked if she could use my notes to study and take the later final. Of course she got an “A” in the class and I ended up with a “B”. I never forgave her for that! She was so bright and she studied hard, usually late into the night. Linda had many friends and even then people knew she was someone they could talk to whenever they needed help. She was also the only one at the time with a car, named Hector, which she gladly loaned to anyone who needed it. Linda was one of the first to design her own major and I think that eventually led her on the road to meeting you, Gary. For many years after college we would get together at least once a year for apple tasting, wildflower hikes and just getting to know each others husbands and families. I had never seen her so happy as she was with you two. Melanie, being your Mom was the highlight of her life. Gary, the last time I saw her she told me that she would not have made it through the last year without you, that your constant love and support meant everything to her. I remember Linda, as many people do, for her cheerfulness, incredible smile, optimistic attitude and amazing intelligence. All of us should strive to be more like her. Even though we were not in close contact for the last few years, I always knew that she was there if I needed someone to talk to. I miss her so much. There is a huge hole in my heart right now, but I am hoping that over time memories of my long time friend will seep in and make it less painful. She will always be remembered.
Love,
Janet Petersen
Tom & Karen Taylor
October 13, 2010
Linda spent her professional life seeking good lives for children - especially those whose lives had been disrupted from the normal stability of a solid family of origin. Linda did the same thing in her personal life, as she and Gary always have sought the best for their beautiful daughter, Melanie. A memory I share with Gary, Melanie, and some other friends is of being at the Vaughts' house in Whitmore to help build a tree house for Melanie. We worked really hard under Melanie's supervision, and at the end of a day of building, the house was roughed-out and usable for Melanie and her friends. Gary and Linda's usual hospitality was extended, and we celebrated the accomplishments of the day with burgers and beers. Linda's focus on children will be missed by all her friends, her family, and our whole community.
Bruce and Wanda Lamb
October 12, 2010
Gary and Melanie...Your wife and mama touched so many lives with kindness, compassion and laughter. She helped to create families through adoption and believed in older children having the oppertunity to have "forever families". She will live in the hearts of your family and friends forever too. It is through your memories Linda will live on...She deminstrated strength everyday and has passed that on to her daughter, Melanie. Blessings be with you always.
Janice Henderson
October 10, 2010
An impressive life, cut short way too soon. I'm sure she will be missed by many. My heart goes out to you Melanie and Gary.
Richard Vaught
October 10, 2010
Linda joined our family over thirty years ago. Through all those years,Gary and Linda were best friends and partners. They always were there for each other, in the good times and bad. They shared their dreams, hopes fears and tragedies but always together. Recently, Melanie came into their lives. Linda and Gary shared the joy of parenthood and, as always, did it together. Linda may have lost her battle with cancer but her love and spirit will be with us all and I know that Gary and Melanie will keep her in their hearts forever. We love them and always will.
Richard, Patty, Kirsten, Erik and Ivonne
Peggy Henderson
October 9, 2010
Gary, I am so sorry for your loss and both Chuck and I send our sympathy to you and Melanie. I am so glad that Sue was able to be there for you and for Linda.
October 8, 2010
Linda was always a cheerful presence in some of the saddest meetings I ever attended. She remained positive and dedicated to serving the children and families in Shasta County with compassion. I worked at an "outside agency", the Shasta County Office of Education but Linda never made me feel like an outsider. I feel honored that I was able to work with her.
Karen Frost
Jane & Tobey Barnes
October 8, 2010
Linda's legacy helping children and families will live on forever. We will savor the memories of our good times with her. Melanie, you will always be her pride and joy. May God bless you and your dad with strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow.
Kirsten Vaught
October 7, 2010
Aunt Linda was an amazing person to have in our family, and I'm glad to have known her throughout my life. From the times she would come down and do arts and crafts with us as kids, to the times we would go up to Redding and ride horses with her, to the time she and Gary came to see me in the hospital after surgery, to the more recent times she would come for the holidays and talk to me about my photography and college life, she was always there and supportive of us and a pleasure to be around. Even while she was fighting her cancer, she always had a smile on her face and was determined to see her family. She was a sincere, kind woman who never stopped fighting to live so she could be with her family. It wasnt until recently that I learned about what she did through a newspaper article, and it was inspiring to see how many lives she touched and what an inspiration she was to her community. She definitely had a positive impact on these families, and I will take that positive energy and apply it to my life. I only wish I had more time to see her, and that Gary and Melanie know how much she loves you guys.
Michele Smith
October 7, 2010
Melanie & Gary,
I had the great honor of having Linda as my supervisor. Her passion and dedication for children will live on through all of the lives she has touched. Linda was so many things for so many people: a mentor, a teacher, a friend, and a force of nature. She was brilliant, honorable, and has been such a huge influence in my life. Her spirit and light will shine bright forever…….
Rick Keiser
October 7, 2010
Gary and Melanie our prayers are with you. We knew Linda through my parents at CPS and also through the adoption of our two oldest kids. She was a very special lady and I know will be missed. Im so sorry for your hurt. I beleive with all my heart that God understands your pain and weeps with you. You are loved. Rick and Jean Keiser
Susan Horner Thompson
October 7, 2010
It was a gift to be able to work with Linda. She was kind and caring. I am honored to call her my friend. My thoughts are with you, Melanie and Gary. Cherish your memories always.
Jackie Hensley
October 7, 2010
Linda was truly a special lady- we adopted our son from the county and she was there when they brought our son to us to hold the first time, watched us interact with him, and knew it would be a good match- and she was right. She really did have a lot of insight into the needs of these kids. She touched our lives and we will never forget her. I only wish that our son had known you! Our deepest sympathy to Gary, Melanie and the rest of her family. She was too young, but her suffering at last has ended. The Hensley Family
Gary Kammerer
October 7, 2010
One of the most favorite memories my wife, Laurie, and I will have of Linda will be our camping trip to Yellowstone. She was always so happy and upbeat even when we saw her fighting this disease. A real inspiration. All the best Gary and Melanie.
Nancy Shifflet
October 7, 2010
Gary & Melanie, Linda was one of the most kind and gentle people I have ever known. My thoughts are with you. She will never be forgotten. ~Nancy
Bob Jacobson
October 7, 2010
I knew Linda only through Gary, her husband and my friend. She brought him great happiness. I know she will be with her family and friends always.
Jaclyn Kong
October 7, 2010
Thank you Linda for your passion, your perseverance, and your grace. You are loved and you will certainly be missed.
Krista Foster Homes
October 7, 2010
Gary and Melanie;
We were sadden to hear of Linda's passing. She was an amazing woman. Our prayers and thoughts are with you both during this time. Blessings on you!
The Krista FFA Staff
Lori Eaton
October 7, 2010
Aunt Linda you will forever be remembered and missed dearly by many. You have touched so many peoples lives. Words can't begin to explain just how amazing you are. Uncle Gary, Melanie, and Aunt Karen; my thoughts are constant with you to pull thru the hard times by remembering all the good memories we have. Along with all other family and friends of the great Linda Vaught. I love & miss you Aunt Linda.
Love always
Lori
Tony Sanell
October 7, 2010
Gary- My deepest, heartfelt sympathies to you and Melanie and all that knew Linda. From an old friend-
October 6, 2010
Dear Gary and Melanie,
Words cannot begin to describe the impact that Linda had in the lives of her workers and the children that we serve. She was dedicated,committed and felt that every child deserved a permanent place. I am so honored to have worked for her and hope to carry on her campaign to help children in their walks of life. Thank you for sharing her with us.
Andy Main
October 6, 2010
I went to school with Linda from Kindergarten through High School. We were good friends and I remember her smile, her great personality and good looks and her ability to easily make friends with all around her. She was gracious and kind and soft spoken. She was always eager and willing to assist and help fellow classmates when asked. She volunteered readily and always had a cheery disposition. While I did not see her much during our adult life, my heart goes out to her immediate family. She was a great person.
Andy Main, Classmate, Enterprise Class of 73.
October 6, 2010
Gary and Melanie,
We were so sorry to learn of Linda's passing. Please know that both of you are in our hearts and in our prayers. May God bless and keep you always. Love, Bill and Carron Oberhauser ( Upland, Ca. )
Emily Corak
October 6, 2010
Linda and I may not have been related by blood, but she is family. My memories of her and the inspiration she gave me will stay with me always. The world was a better place because of her and she will always be loved and missed.
Tara Shanahan
October 6, 2010
Gary and Melanie~My heart goes out to you in your time of grief. Through you both, Linda's life goes on.
Peace and Love,
Tara
Keri Burke & Matt Shuman
October 6, 2010
Gary and Melanie: Linda was the most loving person I've ever known, and the two of you were the light that filled her heart. While on earth we must cope with the great sadness of losing her, there is glorious joy throughout Heaven with her arrival. May you find comfort in your memories of the beautiful soul that you were blessed to call your wife and mother, and may God comfort you and bring you peace during this difficult time. All our love, Keri Burke & Matt Shuman
Angel Wishes of Peace, painting by Denise Daley Balocco
Denise Daley Balocco
October 6, 2010
May the brave & enduring spirit of Linda inspire Gary and their darling daughter, Melanie, through this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers surround you, and God's blessings embrace you!
October 6, 2010
Dear Gary & Melanie, We were so sorry to hear about Linda's passing. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers, our hearts ache for you. Love, Claudia & Bill Hanna Napa
Sue Corak
October 6, 2010
I have so many wonderful memories of the good times on Jeffrey Avenue, at the jazz festival, Elk Grove and Whitmore. Linda has been part of my life for such a long time, that these memories will always remind me of how much I loved Linda. I will miss her dearly and I am so sorry for your loss. I am here for you and Melanie. Love Sue
Erik Vaught
October 6, 2010
Linda was the best Aunt you could ask for. Always there for her family, Linda always took an interest in others and would take the time and initiative to find out more about your life. She will be missed.
Roger Vaught
October 6, 2010
Words cannot describe what a wonderful woman Linda was. It was an honor to be related to her and a privledge to have shared so many good times together.
Steven, Carol & Caitlin Little
October 6, 2010
Even though her life was too short, her contributions were certainly great. Heaven is a better place with her now.
Debra B
October 6, 2010
A remarkable woman who will be missed and whose legacy will live on through the families and children she served.
Samuel Alaniz
October 6, 2010
MAY THE LOVE OF FRIENDS & FAMILIES CARRY YOU THROUGH YOUR GRIEF. LINDA'S LEGACY WILL NEVER DIED AS WE CONTINUED TO CARRY LINDA'S TORCH FOR THE WELL BEING OF THE CHILDREN. GOD BLESS YOU TODAY AND EVER.
Gary Vaught
October 6, 2010
Thank You to all our wonderful, loving family and friends who brought joy to our home with your visits, cards, prayers, food and loving kindness. You made Linda's life all the richer.
Our Love to your all.
Melanie and Gary
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