Linda Lou (Howard) Wilkinson

Linda Lou Wilkinson, born on July 13, 1944, to Kenneth R. T. and Loretta Mae Howard, passed away on January 13, 2026, after a courageous journey with dementia. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, friend, and a loving presence to all who knew her.

She married the love of her life, William G. Wilkinson, on June 13, 1964. Together, they shared a beautiful marriage marked by love, commitment, and family until his passing on May 18, 2020.

Linda graduated from Niagara-Wheatfield High School in 1962 and went on to dedicate her life to caring for others. As the eldest of six children, she naturally assumed a nurturing role—one that defined her throughout her life.

Family was her greatest joy and highest priority. She was the proud mother of four children: William II, Christopher (Kelly), Robert (Sheryl), and Susan (Larry). She was a loving grandmother to thirteen grandchildren and their spouses: Stephanie, Robert Jr. (Ashley), Christopher Jr., Sean, Zachary (Emily), Corey, Nathan, Logan (Nicole), Cassidy, Nicole, Madison, Kayley and Katerina. She was also a cherished great-grandmother to eight great-grandchildren—Lillian, Anastasia, Skylar, Robert III, Grace, Asher and Theodora—with another two great-grandchild on the way.

Time spent with her family—whether gathered together, traveling to the Southern Tier, or enjoying trips to the beach—were moments she treasured most.

She is also survived by her siblings: Judy; Jolene (Harry); Nancy (Tom); Ken (Sue); and Lesha (Neal). She was preceded in death by her father, mother, husband, brother-in-law Kirk, and stepfather Bob.

Her faith guided her life. Linda was actively involved in her church community, serving in the nursery and with AWANA clubs. She had a heart for service and made it her mission to ensure that all felt welcomed, valued, and loved.

Though the final years of her life were marked by illness, the love she gave and the legacy she leaves behind remain strong. She will be remembered for her kindness, selflessness, and unwavering devotion to her family and faith.

She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

All are welcome to gather for visitation on Thursday, January 22nd,  from 3-7 p.m. at the OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME AND NIAGARA COUNTY CREMATION CARE, 2215 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY (716-297-9007).  Family and friends are invited to attend Linda’s graveside service and interment on Friday, January 23rd, at 11:00 a.m., in Maple Grove Cemetery, Shinglehouse, PA. 

Linda’s family has entrusted her care to the Goodlander family.  Share memories and condolences at GOODLANDERCARES.com 

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