Linda Needham

Linda Raines Needham was born April 22, 1940, in Ancell, Missouri. She married Jimmy Needham on July 3, 1969 in Cahokia, Illinois. She left us on May 18, 2021, in Tucson, Arizona.

It is with unmeasurable sadness that we share with our family and friends, the loss of the greatest woman we have ever known, our mother, Linda Needham. She was love and laughter and home to us, no matter the distance. She inspired us to become the women we are today. She never stopped teaching us to be strong women. Even after we had grown, she walked by our sides, encouraging us to be independent and resourceful.

The love she had for her family was boundless. As part of a large family, there are many who loved her. Family was her greatest joy. Even though our dad, Jim Needham, has been gone for more than 20 years, she also remained close to her family by marriage.

Relocating to Arizona renewed her love for photography, and Tucson provided no shortage of inspiration. Her adventurous spirit led her to travel but the nature and vistas that surrounded her home were her favorite places. The friends she made here became her extended family. Knowing she had a community of her own made being away from her easier.

We invite you all to share your photos and stories of our mother, your friend. We know there are many of you that will feel the loss of her in your life. Her legacy will live on in all of us who loved her.

If you want to honor her memory in some way, spend time in nature, give unconditionally, or spend time with those closest to you. In all things, eat delicious food.

In peace, Diana Preston and Tracy Plackemeier

Condolences and memorial letters can be sent to the family in care of: Diana Preston, 2949 Michigan Ave., St. Louis, MO 63118.