Lynda Leigh Basel Orth

Jacksonville - Announcement of the death of Lynda Leigh Basel Orth on January 31, 2024. Born in Stoughton, Wisconsin on June 20, 1947, she began a life of giving, inspiration, and love.

Lynda Orth was an amazing wife, mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, advocate and friend. Those fortunate enough to have been treated to life experiences with Lynda Orth have included family, friends, students, educators, families in distress and folks with special needs.

Lynda was a lesson to all. She taught facing challenges with grace, finding opportunities to share hope and love, reaching out to give joy and happiness, practicing faithfulness and supportiveness. Lynda was a gift of beautiful thoughts, positivity, endurance and strength to her home, community and this fraught world.

Lynda taught for thirty-five years in the Duval Education System beginning at DuPont Middle School and retiring from Mandarin High School. Lynda was certified in many areas including English, Special Education and ESOL. At Mandarin, Lynda's room opened early with music and snacks for students who wanted to enjoy an early morning happy hour. She regularly sponsored football players and found resources outside of the school system to help students unable to afford certain health services.

Lynda was a community volunteer for the Guardian Ad Litem program, served meals for unhoused community members, and served 20 years with her husband as Youth Coordinator at Lakewood Presbyterian Church. She was very active in encouraging voters to get to the polls during elections.

Lynda was a special grandmother to her grandson, Eli Ansel Orth. She could play basketball, create games and devote time to caring for his many boats no matter what was on her agenda. They both would say they loved each other more and to this day and forever, that is the truth.

Survivors include Lynda's husband, Jim Orth, sons Jimmy (Genora), John (Adam), grandson Eli Orth, sisters Sandra Basel and Cynthia Evans and brother Michael Basel.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice supporting and uplifting people and places in the Jacksonville Community.