Linda Ruth Jones, a radiant soul who walked the earth with purpose and laughter, was called to join the Lord on February 9, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, education, and joy. Born on April 17, 1947, in Hagerstown, MD, Linda was a beacon of light in her community, touching lives with her intelligence, courage, and passion.

A proud graduate of North Hagerstown High School in 1965, Linda's quest for knowledge led her to Shepherd University, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude. Her academic journey did not stop there; she went on to receive her Master's in Education from Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania and pursued postgraduate studies for a Ph.D. at the University of New Mexico.

Linda's dedication to learning led to expertise in the classroom and tutoring students after school. She enriched the minds of elementary school children in Hagerstown and junior high students on the Reservation in Albuquerque, NM.

Linda's vibrant personality and zest for life shone through her work on television, where she graced the screens as a weather presenter at NBC News in Albuquerque and at WHAG in Hagerstown. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish Jones Educational/Career Services, and she later served her community as a Case Manager/Mediator at the Washington County Community Mediation Center.

A woman of deep Christian faith, Linda lived her life with the kind of humor that would make even the angels chuckle. She enjoyed the simple pleasures of live music, outdoor concerts, and dancing. Standing at 5'11", with golden blonde hair and commanding presence, she carried herself with a mix of confidence and flair that left an impression wherever she went.

I remember my Mother walking home in her "bug" sunglasses, heels clicking down the pavement, asking if the house was clean and dinner was made. I was only 9, but I knew she was a force!

Her interest in local, national, and global news kept her engaged with the world, and her opinions were as informed as they were delivered with her trademark wit.

Linda's love for travel meant she was often on the road, visiting family and creating memories that would last a lifetime. My daughter Jasmine brought her so much joy. They played "school" often—Jasmine the teacher, Granny the student. Granny Linda traveled to Dallas frequently during the time we lived there.

She outlived her immediate family, parents Nelson Eichelberger Jones (1971), and Ruth Irene Jones Ridenour (2008). Sisters, Patricia Irene Jones Young (oldest, 1987) and Christine Marie Jones (middle, 2004).

Linda leaves behind a tapestry of lives that she has influenced: her daughter Terah Cochrane, granddaughter Jasmine Cochrane, nieces Terah Dyann Tidy and Debra Weeks, great-nieces Scarlette Tidy Jones, and Stevie Jones and great-nephew Jones Tidy. Cousins Colleen and Herb Thomas, and Jerry and Mary Barkdoll. Each of them carries a spark of Linda's spirit, a testament to her enduring presence in their hearts.

Mother never lost sight of what mattered: love, faith, and family. She passed on her strength and her stories to all of us—especially to me and her Granddaughter Jasmine.

The family of Linda Jones will hold a Remembrance Service at Rose Hill Cemetery on Saturday August 23rd @ 10am, 600 S. Potomac Street, Hagerstown, MD 21740. The presence of friends and family is requested.