Linda D. Lombardo

Linda D. Lombardo, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother passed away on December 19, 2025 at the age of 67. Linda passed peacefully at her home, surrounded by her loving family. Born on April 8, 1958 in Warren, Ohio, Linda’s life was a tapestry woven with dedication, love, and a commitment to nurturing those around her.

For the better part of two decades Linda devoted herself to the education of special needs children as an Educational Assistant for the Niles City Schools. Her passion for fostering learning and her unwavering support made a lasting impact on her students and their families alike. A proud graduate of Howland High School in 1976, she carried the values of integrity and kindness throughout her life.

Linda was more than just an educator; she was a deeply cherished and involved grandmother, finding immense joy in the presence of her nine grandchildren. Each moment spent with them was precious and her love knew no bounds. With a great-grandson already in her life and another great-granddaughter on the way, her legacy of love will continue to bloom through her family.

In addition to her family, Linda had a vibrant personality that was truly all her own. While she made it her mission to find joy and positivity in any aspect of life, no matter how small, she had a handful of activities that she will forever be remembered by. A lover of summer break as it allowed endless days by her swimming pool, reading mystery and crime fiction; there wasn’t a Stephen King or James Patterson novel she didn’t own, and relentlessly taking on the most difficult of jigsaw puzzles with her husband James- even if her cats tended to steal pieces sometimes. Christmas held a special place in Linda’s heart, filled with traditions that brought her family together each year; it quickly became Linda and her daughter’s yearly mission to find the silliest, most outlandish White Elephant gifts they could in hopes of sparking unforgettable laughter during family Christmas parties. Humor was a central part of her loving personality, often writing down jokes she would later call and share with her grandchildren.

Her family, who deeply mourn her loss, includes her devoted husband, James Lombardo, whom she married June 26, 1976. James took his vow of “in sickness and in health” as his mission; one he would prove to never falter from. Linda had two sons, David (Julie) Lombardo, Dan (April) Lombardo, and a daughter, Jessica (Doug) Gollan. She also leaves behind her sisters: Sandi Wagner and Wendy Suckow. Linda's spirit will live on in the countless memories shared with her family and friends and will be truly and sorely missed by all.

Linda joins her beloved parents, Darwin and Nancy (Nicholas) Cunningham, as well as her brother Gary Cunningham in eternal rest. While the sorrow of her passing is felt deeply by many, her legacy of love, compassion, and joy will forever resonate in the hearts of those she touched throughout her remarkable journey.

Respecting her wishes there will be no services at this time. Linda’s family would like to express their deepest appreciation to family and friends for their support throughout the duration of her illness, albeit short, and now after her passing. The impact that Linda had on so many peoples’ lives has truly become apparent by the outpouring of support her family has received.

To view this obituary and to send any expressions of sympathy to Linda's family please visit www.blackstonefuneralhome.com.