Linda Bechtol

Linda Lee Bechtol passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family. She was 85 years old.

Born in Dallas on April 24, 1940 to her mother Mary Helen and lovingly raised by her stepfather, Fred Bell, whom she considered her true father, Linda lived a life marked by faith, service, strength, and a deep devotion to her family. In 1977, she moved to Rockport, Texas, where she found both a home and a calling. As a dedicated realtor, she helped countless families find their place in the world and won numerous awards for being top seller in her agency. But it was through her volunteer work that Linda truly touched the heart of her community.

She was a faithful and active member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and gave generously of her time through her work with Castaways, the church’s beloved thrift store. Her commitment to service extended far beyond the church walls – she was a proud and involved member of the Rockport-Fulton Chamber of Commerce, even serving as Chairman of the Board, and was actively involved with the Rockport Seafair Association, where her energy and leadership made a lasting impact.

Above all, Linda’s greatest joy was her family. She was the proud mother of five children – Billy Bechtol, Stephen Bechtol, Patti (Bechtol) Smith (husband Dean), Clay Bechtol (wife Tracey), and Brad Bechtol (wife Kellie) – and leaves behind nine adoring grandchildren – Stephen Bechtol II, Chase Bechtol, Evan Bechtol, Taylor Bechtol, Kate (Heim) Freasier, Mackenzie Conklin, Alex Bechtol, Bradlee Bechtol and Ford BechtoI, and numerous great-grandchildren who will carry her legacy forward with love and pride. To them, she was simply “Honey,” a name that perfectly captured her warmth, sweetness, and the deep love she showered on each of them. She was preceded in death by her beloved grandson, Todd Bechtol, whose memory she held close to her heart.

Linda’s spirit was lively and competitive. She loved a good game of tennis and never turned down a board game challenge, often playing to win and doing so with a twinkle in her eye. She was a devoted sports fan who especially loved watching football and basketball. A master gardener, Linda found joy and peace in tending her flowers and plants. She also had an incredible love for (and attachment to) animals and was known to bring home strays, always ready to offer them a safe and loving home. She had a deep love for music and dancing, and her joy was contagious – bringing light and laughter to everyone. Her warmth, wit and generous heart will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Her life was a beautiful example of grace, strength, and faith. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Visitation with the family will be from 4:00-7:00 Thursday, June 19 at Charlie Marshall funeral home followed by a Mass to honor and celebrate her life on Friday morning, June 20 at 10:00am at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Rockport, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in her name to her favorite organizations, the Cattery https://www.thecatterycc.org/donate.html or to the Humane Society of Rockport Fulton, https://rockportfultonhumanesociety.org/donations/