Linda Jane Creps, 66, passed away peacefully at her home in Estero, Florida, on March 19, 2026, after a long battle with cancer. Born on August 4, 1959, in Bay Village, Ohio, Linda lived a life filled with love, achievement, and cherished connections.
Linda graduated from Bay High School, where she excelled as a member of the volleyball and basketball teams. Her passion for sports continued at The Ohio State University, where she played on the volleyball team while earning her undergraduate degree. She later pursued higher education and earned her MBA from the University of Utah. Throughout her life, Linda’s enthusiasm for athletics remained steadfast; she especially enjoyed golf, tennis, pickleball, skiing, paddle boarding, camping, and boating. Linda was an avid Ohio State football fan and she attended many games and a national championship.
Professionally, Linda dedicated much of her career to working as an information specialist with Mitre. Her expertise and commitment to her work left a lasting impression on those who had the privilege of collaborating with her.
Linda is survived by her loving wife, Dawn Byington; her son Jonathan Bell, who serves in the U.S. Navy; her sister Cindy Brown of Bonita Springs; her brother Del Creps of Colorado Springs; four nieces—Sarah, Lexi, Carly, and Tylee; two nephews—Sammy and Bo; one great-niece Claire and one great-nephew Thomas Brown. She was preceded in death by her parents Beverly Jane Creps (Crates) and Darrel Elliot Creps Jr., both of Bay Village, Ohio, and Estero, Florida.
An active member of her community in Estero, Linda served on the board and participated on the tennis team. She was also involved in the LPGA program and Alzheimer’s fundraisers. Her vibrant personality and love for life were evident in the many friendships she cultivated across the country—particularly in Ohio, Virginia, and Florida. Linda deeply valued these relationships and treasured every moment spent with friends and family.
Linda’s legacy is one of kindness, dedication to others, and a zest for life that inspired all who knew her. May her memory bring comfort to those who loved her.
A Celebration of Life will be held on April 11, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at The Club at Rapallo, located at 8551 Via Rapallo Drive in Estero. Guests are encouraged to wear something blue in honor of Linda’s favorite color. If you have a memory to share about Linda’s life, please come and share it. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a cause close to Linda’s heart online at alz.org., the Alzheimer’s Association.