Linda Whittier

Linda Lee Whittier died peacefully on June 30 at the age of 80 after a yearlong battle with cancer.

Linda was born in 1945 In Esther, MO and spent over 30 years as an educator in the Farmington school district. She was a lifelong member of the Esther United Methodist Church, a devoted and loving sister and the absolute best mother and grandmother anyone could ever imagine. Not to mention, she was a darn good dancer.

As a teacher, she spent countless hours during work and afterward to make multiple generations of students’ lives so much better. As part of the church and community, she devoted time to sharing her faith through Sunday school classes, outreach and church maintenance. Through all of this, her family was always her highest priority and her dedication to being a mother and grandmother was paramount. This was absolutely undeterred and she would put everything aside for the betterment of those closest to her. After retiring from teaching in 2001, her time became consumed with her grandson, Evan, which most certainly was one of the great joys of her life. Linda lit up every room as soon as she entered with her smile and laughter and was the first to hit the dance floor when someone played Elvis or the Beatles.

Linda was preceded in death by her father, Earl Key; her mother, Mary Key; and nephew, Scotty Rubottom. She is survived by her son, Rod Whittier and daughter-in-law Elizabeth Whittier of Wildwood; grandson, Evan Whittier and his wife Sarah Whittier of St. Charles; sister, Patricia Rubottom and brother-in-law Stanley Rubottom of Farmington; nephew, Mike Rubottom of Afton and niece, Stacy Williams of Chesterfield.

Linda’s memory will endure through stories, memories, laughter and life’s lessons. All told with a smile and most likely a tear drop or two. There will never be a day when she won’t be in our thoughts, and we will always be grateful for the wonderful days we had together. It’s a sad day for most of us, but it’s a bright and beautiful day in Heaven.

A memorial visitation will be held at C.Z. Boyer and Son Funeral Home in Desloge, Friday, July 10, 2026, from 4:00 PM until the celebration of life at 6:00 PM. Memorials may be directed in honor of Linda’s memory to the Esther United Methodist Church.