Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Linda Thornley Barney
1945 - 2017
Linda Thornley Barney
1945 - 2017
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1945
DIED
2017
Linda Barney Obituary
Obituary
Linda Thornley Barney, Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Aunt, Friend, and Daughter of God, passed away unexpectedly at home in El Monte, CA on Wednesday morning, July 19, 2017. She had been working through a number of health issues the last couple of years and circumstances Wednesday morning lead us to believe that she developed a blood clot that brought on either a sudden heart attack or stroke. We do not believe that she suffered.
Linda was a descendant of the Mormon Pioneers and was the youngest of Echo and Allie Thornley's six daughters. She was born April 23, 1945 and grew up on her parents farm in Montana where she learned how to work hard, rode horses, and developed her musical talents.
Linda married Frank Barney on December 18, 1964 and soon after started creating her family. Linda is the mother of 10 children and is fiercely loyal to her family. Nothing matters more to her than her husband and her children. As her family continued to grow and her children married, her love, loyalty, and devotion was extended to new spouses, grandchildren, and step-grandchildren unconditionally.
Linda served in the community and her church in numerous capacities. She had a knack for organization. Most notably she served as PTA President at Durfee Elementary and as Relief Society President and Primary President in her local congregation. But, her favorite areas of service involved music. She loved being a choir director in church at both the ward and stake level, and being the choir accompanist at El Monte High School.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Echo and Allie Thornley, her sisters Doraleen Thornley and Margaret Sharf, her child Matthew James Barney (stillborn), and grandchildren Linda Doraleen Barney (stillborn), Michael Barney (stillborn).
She is survived by her husband Frank Barney; three sisters Lois Harris, Sharon Pearson, Ela Dee Alcorn; nine children and their spouses Frank & Kristy Barney, Echo & Matt Wright, Gayle & Steve Dubravac, Craig & Jodie Barney, Wendy & Nathan Clark, Misty & Keith Weinheimer, Ben & Tiffany Barney, Crystal & Stewart Torres, and Jared & Jessica Barney; 39 grandchildren and spouses: Bryan & Geneva McDonnell, Russell & Alex McDonnell, Alec Barney, Brittany McDonnell, Aubree Barney, Robert McDonnell, Allie Wright, Jake & Nina Wright, Travis Wright, Samantha Wright, Stephen DuBravac, Ben DuBravac, Abigayle DuBravac, Craig (Ty) Barney, Joseph Barney, Rebeka Barney, Jacob Barney, Luke Barney, Bradley Clark, Christopher Clark, Sean Weinheimer, Kirsten Weinheimer, Nicole & Jake Nelson, Matthew Barney, Holland Higginbotham, Timothy Barney, Bo Higginbotham, Meagan Barney, London Larson, Delaney Larson, Justin Torres, Jacob Torres, Ashley Torres, Wyatt Barney, Duke Barney; and more nieces and nephews that are possible to count.
Services will be held in El Monte, California and in Smithfield, Utah.
Birth: April 23, 1945 Idaho Falls, Idaho
Death: July 19, 2017 El Monte, California
Viewing: Friday July 28, 2017 6-9pm
Pierce Brothers Turner & Stevens Mortuary 1136 E. Las Tunas Dr. San Gabriel, CA
Funeral: Saturday July 29, 2017 11 am
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 11338 Fairview St., El Monte, CA
Viewing: Friday August 4, 2017, 12pm to 1pm
Nelson Funeral Home, 162 East 400 North, Logan, Utah
Memorial Service: Friday August 4, 2017 1 pm
Nelson Funeral Home, 162 East 400 North, Logan, Utah
Burial: Friday August 4, 2017
Smithfield City Cemetery, 300 East Center Street, Smithfield, Utah
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Alicia Morse Hermosillo
November 7, 2017
Best second mom there ever was! Even when she was yelling at us to not touch her white walls or chasing us with a spatula ready to spank us for misbehaving. All my childhood memories revolve around your family and I wouldn't want it any other way! She was tough as nails but her smiles and hugs were always genuine. We will make a Taco Bell run for Diet Pepsi's in her honor for sure!
Alicia Morse Hermosillo
Saby Franco-Velasquez
November 7, 2017
I am writing with a heavy heart, no words can express the love I have for your family. I have you all in my prayers and I know that Linda is with our Heavenly Father. She is and will always be a beautiful woman both inside and out. Every time I would visit, her warmth & love toward my children & I was amazing she made us feel like we were an extension of her family. She will be greatly missed. I love you all and know that you are all in my prayers.
Saby Franco-Velasquez
Julie Alcorn Hunt
November 7, 2017
Aunt Linda was always so fun to visit with. She had so much energy and would always tell interesting stories, or at least they became more interesting the way she told them. We will truly miss her.
Julie Alcorn Hunt
Arlene Barney
November 7, 2017
We attended the Utah service and I can't remember a nicer one. It was so well-planned and thoughtful and tearful and beautiful. What a tribute to a dear dear sweet lady. We will miss her so much.
Love to all from Gene and Arlene's family.
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Angela Pearson
November 7, 2017
What a shock! You are all in our prayers. She is truly a woman I want to emulate. Love you all.
Angela Pearson
Julie Alcorn Hunt
November 7, 2017
Such devastating news. We were all in shock when we heard. Such a wonderful, strong, kind lady. We will miss our Aunt Linda!
Julie Alcorn Hunt
Laurie Easton Lancster
November 7, 2017
Lots of good memories of your mom back in El Monte. Thinking of you and your family during this very difficult time.
Laurie Easton Lancaster
Melanie Morgan Anderson
November 7, 2017
We love Aunt Linda and pray for you and your family during this tough time. So glad I got to give her one last hug at the reunion!
Melanie Morgan Anderson
Mike Ruggles
November 7, 2017
So sorry Frank. There's never a good time for something like this. I loved your Mom. Such a great lady!
Mike Ruggles
Jeff Ruggles
November 7, 2017
Barney Family. So sorry for your loss! Your mother will leave a great legacy of love behind.
Jeff Ruggles
Felice Popick Durazo
November 7, 2017
For so many years you lived on the next easement and we never got to know your family.
I knew your mom was a special lady though from how great you kids were. Savor the memories.
Felice Popick Durazo
Linda Zilks
November 7, 2017
I was so sad to hear about Aunt Linda. She's a great lady and I'll miss her a lot. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Linda Dee Zilks
Brenda Smith
November 7, 2017
I am so so sorry and in disbelief. I know the pain and heartache and can only say it takes time. Lucky for us we shared so many precious memories that will never be forgotten. You're in my prayers. Give my love to the whole family.
Love Brenda Smith
Tina Surenok
November 7, 2017
I'm sorry for your loss. I have memories of many wonderful years with her, especially through church. Amazing person! Will have you all in thought and prayer
Tina Surenok
Marci Moody
November 7, 2017
I am so sorry! Linda was a good friend of mine and I always appreciate her kindness as well as her sense of humor. Please tell your dad that my prayers will be that he and your whole family enjoy the good memories and have the Lord's spirit with you.
Marci Moody
Kathy White
November 7, 2017
So so very sorry to hear about your Mother she was my best friend. I can't even write the tears are flowing so hard.
I could say s million good things about Linda, but best is friend. She became my good friend when I first moved to El Monte in 1979, being new to California, she made me and my family feel part of her family. We spent Thanksgiving, Easter and Fourth of July together for many years. My children love Linda and Frank and consider them Family. I will miss my dear friend.
Kathy White
Michelle King
November 7, 2017
We're so very sorry about this... Linda was such a talented lady and stalwart in the EM 1st Ward. Condolences to your entire family...you'll be in our prayers...
Michelle King
Debbie Alcorn Lamb
November 7, 2017
Love that you chose this picture! I had sent this picture to my siblings earlier today remembering Aunt Linda. I was so touched that she made a special point to hold Jessa that day. We are thinking so much of you guys today, are hearts are heavy for you, love you!
Debbie Alcorn Lamb
Alicia Tebbs
November 7, 2017
I am so sad to hear this! I loved your mom. Hugs, peace and comfort to you and the family. Give your dad a hug for me and keep us posted on arrangements.
Alicia Milne Tebbs
Frankie Barney
November 7, 2017
My mother, Linda Thornley Barney passed away this morning. It was not expected. Still hasn't hit me yet. On my way to California to help make arrangements for next week. She will be greatly missed. I'm just glad she got to see Kristy and I get sealed last week.
Frankie
Kristy Barney
November 7, 2017
A week ago my mother-in-law Linda Barney was going down the zip line. Yestetday she passed away suddenly. Life can change so quickly. Linda was always sweet to me and welcomed my entire family when Frank and I were married. She will be greatly missed.
Kristy Barney
James Dalton
November 7, 2017
She was a special friend. Give your dad my best.
James M. Dalton
Bill Hudson
November 7, 2017
I've only known your mom to be involved in music. Not only was she involved with our ward choir as both a pianist and director but she was also in charge of the music for all the roadshows that we did.
Bill Hudson
Charles Clayton
November 7, 2017
Heartfelt thoughts and prayers for all of you at this time. I am so very sorry for the sudden loss of your mother. Aunt Linda was always funny and busy, and a source of fun and mischief. It always makes me smile to remember the fun times at your guys place in CA and over at Grandma Thornley's. Please let everyone know we will keep all of your family in our prayers. Warm, kind, and caring thoughts, Charlie Clayton
Pam Barkas
November 7, 2017
Jim and I will be attending on Saturday, July 29th, to honor the woman whose love and skills produced such a remarkable family. Our sympathies extend to all in your family, but especially to your father, you, Echo, Gayle, and Jared.
Pam Barkas
Catherine Watts
November 7, 2017
Our love and prayers are with your family! Such a shock. Linda was always fun to visit with! Nice pictures of family.
Catherine Watts
Idolina Guerra Ornelas
November 7, 2017
Brother Frank Barney & Family, My sincere condolences. Linda was a beautiful lady whom I admired in all she did in church & with her family. I am saddened... yet I know we will meet again.
Love you all.
Idolina Guerra Ornelas
Kristy Barney
November 7, 2017
I'm constantly amazed at how Frank, his siblings and father come together. Family will always be the most important. Here they are saying a beautiful goodbye to their mother and wife. Linda was an amazing lady and will be very missed.
Kristy Barney
Jason Morgan
November 7, 2017
We do so wish we could make it to the service, to honor our dear friend and her family, whom we love and regard. We send our love and prayers. Your family is on the prayer roll in the Snowflake Arizona Temple. Our hello to family and friends who gather at the service. We send our love to the family. A wonderful lady has gone home to Father. May God bless you all with peace .
Jason and Jeannine Morgan and family
vicki Cluff
November 5, 2017
We are so sorry to hear this news about our sweet friend. We send love and prayers to all the Barneys at this difficult time. We have treasured our friendship forever. I know it was a terrible shock but I'm so glad she didn't suffer and now she's wrapped in her Savior's arms and we'll see her again!
We wish we could have come to the funeral, prior commitments make it impossible but we send love and prayers to all of the sweet Barneys. We have such great memories of the years we were together and have known and loved Frank and Linda!
Hap and Vicki Cluff and family
Dion Wall
November 5, 2017
Much admiration to Sister Linda Barney and love to Brother Frank and all the family.
Dion Wall
Larry Morse
November 5, 2017
Writing this is hard for me. Linda has been a great friend for so many years, to the degree of almost being a family member. This is the loss I feel. My prayers and thoughts go out to you Frank, and every one of you children. I love you all more than you will ever know. You all have been a blessing in my life from the day we met in El Monte many years ago. You have been a blessing in my children's lives as well. Thank you Linda for your love and caring for us all. For always making us welcome in your home and in your life. Seeing you and Frank last year was as if I had just gone to the store and dropped by to say hello. You both were the same the first time we met. Thank you Sister Barney for your love and compassion that you have shown us all. You fought the good fight and endured to the end. Bless you friend, mother, wife and truly a Latter Day Saint in every shape and form..
Thanks from a friend.
Larry Morse
Mitch Vice
November 2, 2017
I am so shocked and saddened, and my heart goes out to your dad and family. They are a model couple and your mom is amazing! I let my mom know the details you shared with me in Frankie's announcement. I'm not sure of their plans given my dad's health, and they'd be honored to hear from you. My sincere condolences to you Echo. Please accept my earnest embrace.
Mitch Vice
Samuel Clayton
November 2, 2017
In honor of my great aunt Linda (Barney) who died last week at the age of 72. She was the youngest sister of my grandmother who at 91 years old is very much still with us. My grandmother was the eldest of a Utah/Montana Mormon farm family of 6 daughters, and Aunt Linda was the youngest. Because of this age gap Linda was actually not much older than my father and in fact a year younger than my aunt Patsy, Grandma
Debra Mander
November 2, 2017
My heart is breaking. I love your mom. She was there for me during the worst time. She was such a good friend! I'm praying for all of you. Give your dad a hug for me.
Debra Mander
Lisa Warnick
November 2, 2017
Frank, please know that you and your family will be in our prayers. We loved your mom and we have so many memories of the Barney family and El Monte. Love and Hugs to all of you!
Lisa Easton Warnick
Patsey Lyman
November 2, 2017
I feel blessed that Linda was in my life. I never thought of her as my Aunt Linda...she was more like my sister. I'm in shock and having a difficult time accepting she's gone. Our thoughts, prayers and love are with you and your family.
Patsy Roger Lyman
September 17, 2017
My dear dear friends.....the Barney family. How sorry we are to hear of the loss of Linda. She and you all are a very important part of the Suggs' family memories. We love you all and enjoyed living right down the street and the fun times we had with your family. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time. We love you dearly.
Love the Suggs (and especially Susan) family.
Allie Wright
August 5, 2017
I always loved coming to Grandma's and Grandpa's and getting big hugs with Grandma. One year for Thanksgiving Grandma told me and Nicole that she was working on not swearing, and to help her, we couldn't say the word "crap". About an hour or so later, me and Nicole walked into the kitchen as Grandma dropped something and let a swear work slip. We had a good laugh with Grandma and teased her. But we kept our end of the deal for her. I will always remember Grandma's spunk. She was never afraid to say it as it was. I love her and miss her!
Alexa Reynega
August 5, 2017
I'll always remember how sweet Linda always was. And the time I went one year with Crystal over to Linda's house to make pies for Thanksgiving. We sure made a lot of pies! I'll always cherish that memory I had with her.
Crystal Torres
August 5, 2017
Mom,
You are one of a kind. I love you so much. I loved coming in and spending days with you. Especially when my babies were little. I love how you loved them and praised my motherhood skills. It always boosted my confidence.
Love You Always!
Jake Wright
August 5, 2017
One of my favorite and most recent memories of grandma was when Nina and I were living with Grandma and Grandpa for a few months. Grandma would always watch the BYU football games with me and would get mad at me for yelling every time BYU would do something bad. But then one time we were both cheering and yelling as BYU scored a touchdown to take the lead in a game and Grandma turned to me and said "Now that;s worth yelling for!"
Grandma was always so kind and loving towards me. I loved her hugs and being around her. I really cherish the 3 months I was able to live with her and be around her so much.
I love her so much and can't wait to see her again.
Jacob Torres
August 5, 2017
My last memory of Grandma was at the Timpanogas Temple. We were taking pictures. Grandma was telling how to smile correctly for pictures. She told me to say the word six and you would get a perfect smile. Not to big, not to small. That was some usefull advise. I will proubly never look like a dork with an ugly smile again. Thanks
Jacob Barney
August 5, 2017
When I was 9 years old I remember hearing the ice cream truck and I looked over and saw Grandma with her shirt, full of quarters, and she got everybody ice cream.
Susie Kerr
August 3, 2017
Frank - My prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time. Linda was quite a gal!!!!!
Paul Francis
July 23, 2017
Frank Barney and family,
I wish to express my condolences to you and your family. I truly can relate to your sorrow as my wife passed away in March. This event will certainly change your life and you will draw closer as family as you go through the coming adjustments. Linda was a very special person and she will be missed not only by family, but by the many persons who's lives she touched.
Sincerely, Paul Francis (Rowland Heights Ward)
July 23, 2017
May God's loving kindness and comfort help you and your family through this very sad time Psalms 29:11
Showing 1 - 47 of 47 results
1136 East Las Tunas Drive, San Gabriel, CA 91776
Make a Donation
in Linda Barney's name
How to support Linda's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Linda Barney's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
