Malinda's Obituary

Malinda Sue Fry, age 46, of Goshen, Indiana, who left this world peacefully on September 18, 2025. Born on March 30, 1979, to Frank Fry and the late Linda (Pickett) Stevens. Malinda resided with her mother and stepfather the late Craig Stevens for the majority of her life. Malinda enjoyed being active in special Olympics track, baton, and bowling after graduating from Northwood high School.

Malinda was truly a shining light in the lives of everyone who had the joy and privilege of knowing her. She radiated warmth, innocence, and pure happiness in a way that was impossible to ignore. Her smile was unforgettable, wide and full of life, and it was almost always accompanied by a mischievous, ornery glint in her eye that hinted she had something funny or clever on her mind. She had a playful spirit, one that delighted in laughter and found joy in the simplest of things.

Whether it was a silly moment, a spontaneous thought, or something only she could find humor in, Malinda would often burst into laughter with little warning, lighting up the room with her pure delight. Her giggles, which sometimes came out of nowhere, were music to the ears of those who loved her. She had a unique gift for spreading joy without ever trying. It was simply who she was.

Malinda was deeply social and wholeheartedly loving. She had a natural affection for people and never hesitated to strike up a conversation with anyone she met and give a hug. She connected easily with others, often forming instant bonds that felt like lifelong friendships. Whether you had just met her or had known her for years, she would quickly and sincerely call you her friend, and she meant it with all her heart. There was no pretense in Malinda. Her love was genuine, her trust was simple, and her presence was a blessing to those around her. It was impossible to walk away from a conversation with her without feeling uplifted. She made people feel seen, special, and important, and in today's world, that was a rare and precious gift.

Her heart was full of childlike wonder, and she embraced that joy with every part of her being. She found delight in things that others might overlook, a new coloring book, a beloved doll, or a favorite scene from a Disney movie. She loved art, books, coloring, and collecting dolls, all of which allowed her to express her creativity and celebrate the beauty of imagination. Her collection of coloring books stood like a small treasure trove, evidence of the many peaceful hours she spent immersed in color and creativity. Her love for Disney was endless, and among all the characters, Elsa from Frozen held a special place in her heart. The story, the songs, the magic, they all spoke to her sense of wonder.

One of the most cherished memories of Malinda and those around her was her joyful day at the Blueberry Festival. From the moment she arrived, her face lit up with happiness. She had the best time, taking countless photos, laughing with family and strangers alike, soaking in every moment of the celebration while shopping and enjoying the entertainment and eating an elephant ear as well as a piece of blueberry cheesecake.

One memorable Christmas day was when a family friend dressed as Elsa and surprised her. Malinda's eyes sparkled with wonder, and her whole face erupted in one of her radiant smiles. That simple act of kindness brought her immeasurable joy. She talked about that moment with such happiness, and the pictures taken that day captured the pure essence of her spirit, bright, innocent, and full of love.

Christmas was Malinda's favorite time of year. The season spoke to her soul in a way few things did. She adored everything about it, the lights, the music, the decorations, and the magical feeling that filled the air. Her favorite Christmas song was "Silent Night," and she would sing it to anyone and encouraged everyone to sing along with her. She would watch Santa Claus movies back-to-back, completely enchanted by the joy and wonder they brought. Malinda's eyes sparkled with wonder, and her whole face would erupt in a smile as she sang along to the familiar Christmas songs.

She immersed herself in the magic of the season, and her excitement during the holidays was as bright and beautiful as the lights she loved to look at. Malinda loved Christmas and was always excited to get and give Christmas gifts and spread her Joy to family friends and anyone she met. It was about warmth, joy, and family; all things she carried in her heart every day.

She also took tremendous pride in the little things that made her feel beautiful and celebrated. After getting her nails done, Malinda would show them off with such excitement and confidence, holding out her hands with pride and a big smile, eager to share her joy. Those around her could not help but smile back. Her enthusiasm reminded everyone that even life's smallest moments are worth celebrating.

Malinda had an incredible ability to lift spirits, to offer a hug when it was needed most, and to bring light into every space she entered. Her hugs were genuine and comforting, her laughter contagious, and her kindness unmatched. She had a magnetic presence. People were drawn to her warmth, her sincerity, and her joy. She made the world a little brighter just by being in it.

Above all else, Malinda carried a deep and unwavering love for Jesus. Her faith was simple, beautiful, and steady. It brought her peace in times of uncertainty and gave her strength in times of difficulty. She did not preach it, but you could feel it in the way she lived, with grace, gentleness, and love. Her favorite hymn, "Silent Night," was not just a song to her. It was a reflection of her soul, calm, faithful, and full of light.

Malinda lived a life filled with laughter, hugs, faith, and love. She left behind a legacy of joy and kindness that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. To know her was to experience a rare kind of love, pure, joyful, and utterly unforgettable.

She is now reunited in Heaven with her loving mother, Linda Stevens, and Craig Stevens (stepfather) along with her beloved sisters, Trenna Fry and Dawn Filbrandt, who went before her.

A graveside service to celebrate Malinda's life will be held at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, 10776 McKinley Hwy., Osceola, IN 46561, on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at 1:00 PM.

To leave a message of condolence or share a memory of Malinda, please visit ChapelHillMemorial.com.