After 50 years of marriage, Francis (Frank) Linehan and Denise Linehan passed away this year; Frank July 3, 2025 and Denise September 17, 2025. Celebrating their golden anniversary was a testament to their enduring love and partnership.
Frank, born in Glens Falls, NY in October 1951, was one of six children born to the late John D. and Gertrude Linehan. Frank's mechanical genius was evident from a young age; he could build or engineer anything he set his mind to. He honed these skills during his service in Korea, where he was honorably discharged as a Sergeant and received a sharpshooter award. He later applied his expertise as a drill engineer for the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). In retirement, he continued to build and tinker with passion projects, including custom BBQs, trailers, and his beloved Jeep rebuilds. Known for his generosity, Frank was always ready to lend a helping hand to family and friends.
Denise, born in Youngstown, OH in March 1952, was one of three children born to the late Walter and Pauline Mueller. She was a creative soul who enjoyed crafting and drawing while also dedicating her life to helping others. In 1973, she graduated from nursing school as an RN and began her career at Jackson Memorial in Miami. She later joined North Florida Pediatrics in Lake City, specializing in the field for over forty years. Denise was renowned for her dedication and care for her patients. Away from the hospital, she could be found working on the couple's farm in Lake City, tending to her cherished gardens.
Frank and Denise met in Key Biscayne and married in April 1975. Together, they raised two sons, Brian and Michael. In the late 70s, the family moved to Colorado, where Frank built their family homestead. After nearly a decade, they returned to Florida, a place they both loved. They cherished their time together, especially visiting their grandson, Harlan, and taking trips along Florida's Forgotten Coast.
Their final months were marked by quiet strength and devotion. Despite Frank's recent cancer diagnosis, he remained positive and dedicated to his wife and family. Likewise, Denise remained committed to Frank throughout her own recent illness.
Frank and Denise are survived by their sons, Brian (Amanda) Linehan and Michael (Sarah) Linehan, and their grandson, Harlan. Frank is also survived by his brother, John Linehan (Roseanne), and his sisters, Mary Womer, Ruth Hitchcock, Bridget (Joe) Polidore, and Ellen (Scott) Russell. Denise is survived by her sister, Monica (Greg) Saxon, and her brother, David (Melanie) Mueller, along with numerous other family members and friends.
Cremation rites have been accorded for both. They will be laid to rest together at Jacksonville National Cemetery at 2:00 PM on Friday, October 3rd, 2025. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the
American Cancer Society or Ronald McDonald House Charities.
Published by Lake City Reporter on Sep. 27, 2025.