Linda Lou Carley

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Lou Carley, 75, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She entered Heaven's gates on July 11, 2023, in Stockton, Utah.



Born on September 20, 1947, Linda was the youngest child in a family of four children. Her laugh was infectious, and she had tremendous childlike wonder for simple things. Linda found beauty in the ordinary, flowers, birds, walking through the woods, visiting lighthouses. She loved baking, gardening, music, decorating for Christmas and talking with friends. She always carried a tote of books on trips to the cabin in the woods, to Las Vegas, and on road trips across the country. It was not unusual for her to regularly read 2 to 3 books each week, and more when she was on vacation.

Linda was a caregiver for things large and small, from her beloved cats to mischievous squirrels. Birthday parties, for her cats, peanuts for the squirrels, and in the spring hummingbird food was on the stove within minutes of the first sight of one of her small friends. Furthermore, she enjoyed leisurely afternoons watching birds from her back patio, a simple pleasure that spoke volumes about her appreciation for nature and tranquility.



Linda dedicated much of her career to public service, working as a Government Budget Supervisor at Fort Sheridan, Illinois until her retirement. Once retired, she seemed to get a second wind of life and was up for any adventure.

Linda's love for travel was profound, having explored nearly all fifty states, Europe, Mexico, and Canada. Her adventures didn't stop at sightseeing; she also cherished creating memories with her family, especially her grandchildren, during summer vacations at "Porcupine Lodge" and trips to Hawaii. Linda's passion for the outdoors was matched by her love for the Chicago Bears, a dedication that she held dear throughout her life. She may have fallen in love with Chicago, but at heart, she was always a Jersey Girl.



Linda is survived by her daughter, Cynthia Jennings Padilla; grandchildren, Gabrielle Jennings, and Jaden Anthony Padilla; brother, Gerald K. Jennings; sister, Sandra F. Johnson. She was preceded in death by her parents, Donald Ranch Jennings, and Edith Jeannette (Haines), and her brother, Donald Robert Jennings.

Contributions in Linda's memory can be made to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah, a cause close to her heart. Linda's presence will be profoundly missed, but she will always be remembered with great love by everyone who knew her.