Linda Gaulding

"Her creativity knew no bounds, and her love knew no limits." 

Linda Gaulding, 72, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones, in May 2025, near Lenexa, Kansas. She was born in Topeka, Kansas, to Al and Lucy.

 She was preceded in death by her husband of 28 years, William "Bill" Gaulding (d. 2005); her son, Magnum Gaulding (d. 2015); her parents, Alfred Grice and Lucy Breitenstein; and her stepfather, Joseph Breitenstein. 

Linda is survived by her sons, Shawn Walker (Kim), and Sam Gaulding (Gayle); grandchildren Ashley Walker, and Stephanie Walker; great-grandchildren Mazikeen, and Alizah; sisters Cara McNair (Joe), Kim Ross, and Mary Smith (Chad); brothers Al Grice (Edna), and Joe Breitenstein; and many cherished nieces and nephews. 

Linda was a loving, compassionate, free-spirited artist who inspired everyone around her. She expressed her boundless creativity through dance, painting, photography, sculpture, and pottery. Though modest about her achievements, she was delighted to encourage others to refine their gifts. She was also an avid reader and loved traveling with her husband.

 Linda was a lifelong learner and a dedicated student. She frequently attended various classes at Johnson County Community College (JCCC). Although she often possessed more wisdom and experience than her classmates, the youthful energy of the other students kept her feeling young at heart. (Video: JCCC Student Art Photographer Linda Gaulding - Youtube)

 Above all else, Linda was devoted to her family and cherished every moment they spent together. She also had many friends with whom she shared countless adventures and embraced life to the fullest. 

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and support staff at The University of Kansas Hospital and Cancer Center's Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) Clinic. Their unwavering care and kindness were a constant source of strength throughout Linda's years of treatment.

 At the family's request and privacy, no formal services will be held. They encourage everyone who knew Linda to celebrate her life in their special ways and share memories that honor her spirit. 

Linda is inurned at the Johnson County Funeral Chapel and Memorial Gardens beside her husband and son.

 The family asks that instead of flowers or cards please make a memorial contribution to: Great Plains SPCA (greatplainsspca.org/donate) Bone Marrow Transplant Clinic, The University of Kansas Cancer Center (kucancercenter.org/give) ASPCA – American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA.org/donate">ASPCA.org/donate)