Linda DeVoe

Linda DeVoe (Henderson), 67

Linda DeVoe, age 67, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025, in Tucson, Arizona, surrounded by the love of her family and community.

Born on November 14, 1957, in Scobey, Montana, to her loving parents Bill and MaryAnn Henderson, Linda was the only daughter in a family of five siblings. She grew up in Scobey and the Flathead Valley. Linda told stories of adventure growing up on the farm in Scobey and the fashion store her parents ran. Bill and MaryAnn purchased the Vacationer Motel in Kalispell where they lived and spent many hours playing in the pool. She loved to swim and earned many race ribbons growing up.

Linda dedicated her life to education, service, and family. She earned her Degree in Education from Montana State University and went on to receive a Master's Degree in Administration from the University of Montana. Linda's passion for nurturing and inspiring young minds led her to a fulfilling career as an elementary teacher and later a principal in Montana's Flathead Valley. Her leadership and heart left a lasting impact on thousands of students, families, and colleagues.

Beyond the classroom, Linda continued her commitment to children by volunteering on the foster care review board, advocating for the well-being of vulnerable youth and volunteering in Tucson at Kids Closet.

After retiring, she and her husband Tony embraced their love of travel. They took to the road in their home on wheels and experienced incredible places across the West and Southwest. And a trip to Italy, where they were able to immerse themselves in Tony's heritage. They spent many days and sometimes nights sailing on Flathead Lake, where the running joke is "what new sails did Tony buy for Linda's boat?" They were active members of the North Flathead Yacht Club.

Eventually settling in a welcoming community in Tucson, where Linda found joy in golfing. She loved her golf group, their deep friendships and the "ping!" of her putter sinking another hole.

When family or friends visited her home, she greeted them with love, laughter, and a carefree spirit. She was quick to make a meal and made everyone more comfortable in her presence. She hosted many Christmas celebrations for her family with White Christmas playing in the background, her famous lasagna, and a good game of Spades. Linda enjoyed hearing laughter in her home, but especially the giggles from her grandchildren. She became one of their biggest supporters and created memories that will live on.

Linda is survived by her husband, Tony DeVoe; her daughter and son-in-law, Melissa and Rob Phillips; and her cherished grandchildren, Landon and Paige Phillips. She is also survived by her brothers, Gary and Ken Henderson. She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and MaryAnn Henderson, and her brothers Don and Dana Henderson.

A celebration of Linda's life will be held on November 15th from 4–7 p.m. at Somers Mansion in Kalispell, MT. All who knew and loved her are welcome to attend.

Linda's legacy is one of compassion, kindness, strength, and joy. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.