Linda Goolsby Downs

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James Madison University University of Virginia

Linda Downs Obituary

Linda Goolsby Downs passed away on March 3, 2009. She was born April 8, 1954, in Lexington, Va., daughter of the late Wilton Holbrook (Buddy) and Edith McCormick Goolsby. Linda received her undergraduate degree from James Madison University in 1976. In 1997 she received a master of education degree from the University of Virginia and continued taking courses at Longwood University in Library Media Services. Linda was a member of the Stone Church of the Brethren in Buena Vista. A lifelong educator, she taught in Page, Rockbridge, Culpepper and Madison Counties before joining the Buena Vista School System in 1984. From 1984 until her retirement in December 2004, Linda taught sixth grade and was library media specialist at Parry McCluer Middle School. Linda had a zest for life and loved being surrounded by family, friends and always her students. Reading was her passion and she longed to share it with everyone. Since her diagnosis in 1992, she faced the challenges of cancer with unyielding determination and courage. Her spirit, energy and strength inspired and uplifted those around her. She is survived by her devoted husband of 30 years, D. Earl Downs of Buena Vista; her son and daughter-in-law, David and Sarah Downs of Cincinnati, Ohio; her daughter and son-inlaw, Katie and Tim Jennings of Buchanan, Va.; and looked forward to the birth of her first grandchild in August of 2009. Betty and Ray Ferguson of Buena Vista are the loyal and loving adopted grandparents of Katie and David. Doris and Harold Inskeep of Culpeper are beloved in-laws. Linda loved her many dear friends who supported her throughout her life and especially during her illness. She considered Dr. William Fintel and the staff at Blue Ridge Oncology as part of her extended family and she considered them the reason why her life was such a long and joyous one after her diagnosis. Arrangements through Bolling, Grose and Lotts Funeral Home in Buena Vista includes an informal family visitation hour beginning 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 7, 2009, in the fellowship hall at the Stone Church of the Brethren in Buena Vista, Va., to be followed by a celebration of her life beginning 2 p.m. in the church sanctuary and a brief family graveside service. Friends are welcome to visit with the family any time. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Susan 0. Komen foundation for breast cancer research or the Rockbridge Area Relay For Life.

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Published by Roanoke Times on Mar. 5, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Linda Downs

10 Entries

linda france

March 10, 2009

The Family of Linda Goolsby,
I am so very sorry to hear of the passing of Linda. She and I grew up and went to school with each other until I moved after the 8th grade to Bassett, VA. I have often wondered how her life turned out and from what I have read a wonderful, blessed one. I am so sorry to hear of her struggle and celebrate having known her. God bless each of you.
Linda Clark France

Debbie Locke

March 9, 2009

I first met Linda in 1992 at Lewis Gale when she was first diagnosed with breast cancer. I will always remember how positive she was and how much she wanted to fight her disease. She was an inspiration to everyone and I am really going to miss her. I loved her very much and know how very important her family and friends were to her. Take care and God bless you all.

Jessica Beverley

March 6, 2009

I had the privilege of being one of Linda's nurses, several years ago. She always had an attitude of hope and was such encouragement to others. She later became a wonderful mentor to our daughter, Keston. Keston often will make a comment about something "that Mrs. Downs taught me." God puts special people in your life for a reason. He put Linda Downs in ours to be our mentor, our neighbor and our friend.
I will miss her wave and smile when that white van drives by Woodland Avenue!
To Earl, Katie, David and family, rejoice and look up! God bless you all!
Jessica, Wayne, Keston and Ashton Beverley

Robert & Diane Stevens

March 5, 2009

Earl, David & Family; We are saddened to hear of the loss your wife & mother. We have many fond memories of being with you all and watching David & Matt play basketball at Bridgewater. She will certainly live on each day in all of you. Please know that you are in our thoughts & prayers in this difficult time.
Sincerely Bobby & Diane Stevens

Brian Aylor

March 5, 2009

I remember when Mrs Downs taught 5th grade at Madison Elementary School (Madison, Va). I was not in her class, but I remember her being a teacher. I thought of her years after she and her family moved away. I recently found her on FACEBOOk and we corresponded a couple of times. My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time.

Philip King

March 5, 2009

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Karl and Kathy Moore

March 5, 2009

Earl, David, Sarah, Katie and Tim,
Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you. Hold your memories close to your heart.

Teresa Fainter

March 5, 2009

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Linda was such a great person and a good friend. She will sadly be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Misty Armstrong

March 5, 2009

There are so many words to describe this amazing woman, but I'll just say, simply unforgettable. Definitely what every teacher should aim to become...
Earl, David, Kaite, we love you all. Time heals all. Give time, time.

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