Linda Alma Hand, born July 18, 1935, in Seattle, Washington, passed away peacefully at home on February 28, 2026 after a life well lived. She was 90 years old.

A woman of warmth, creativity, and boundless kindness, Linda always put others first and made everyone feel welcome at her table. Her life was centered on caring for others and creating a home filled with love.

Linda was born to Frank and Edith Nelthorpe and grew up in Seattle’s Bryant neighborhood alongside her sister, Marcia. She spent most summers at Lake Tapps or Indianola with her family creating lifelong memories. She graduated from Roosevelt High School and went on to earn a degree in Home Economics from the University of Washington.

After college, Linda traveled to Hawaii with her friend Sandy, where she later met and married her first husband, Jack. Together they had two children, including her beloved son Kelly. After time in Texas, she returned to Seattle with her children, Sue and Kelly. She later met Don at a Parents Without Partners event, and they married in 1969, building a life rooted in family and community.

Linda was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Known affectionately as “MorMor,” she was a constant presence in the lives of her family and community. She supported Camp Fire girls, PTA events, soccer teams, frisbee and Ragnar teams—always ready to cook a meal, sew a costume, or cheer from the sidelines. Her pride in her children and grandchildren, and in all they pursued, was unwavering.

She worked for Puget Power and Group Health, but her greatest contributions were through her church, her cherished Circle friends, and the loving care she gave to her family.

Linda will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and quiet strength. She found joy in painting and crafting, and treasured road trips with Sue to the coast and to Canada—passport in hand and ready for adventure. There was always room for one more person at her table or in her house.  She had a gift for making people feel seen, cared for, and truly at home, and her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched.

Linda is survived by her daughters, Susan Mayes and Karyn Taggart, as well as her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son Kelly and her husband Don.

Linda was determined to remain in her home, where she received exceptional care and support from Evergreen Hospice. In her final days, she spent time reflecting on her faith and what comes next, often wondering who would be waiting to take her dancing. She found comfort in a simple message: “Keep your fork”—a reminder that the best is yet to come.

A reception to celebrate Linda’s life will be held on Sunday, April 19th from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Shoreline Center.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hunger Intervention Program or Evergreen Hospice in her memory.

Linda will be deeply missed and forever loved.

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