Linda Tompkins

Linda Jeanne Walker Tompkins, 78, left her earthly home to be in the arms of Jesus on October 26, 2023, after a valiant battle with a long illness. Linda was born on May 1, 1945, in Kingston, New York to Lindsay and Francis Walker. She was raised in Coxsackie, New York and graduated from Coxsackie-Athens high school in 1963. When only five years old, she met the love of her life, Lynn Tompkins. Lynn asked her to marry him by giving her an imitation pink pearl necklace for her fifth birthday. He continued to ask her every year until she finally said, “Yes” at age 21. Their lives were joined in holy matrimony on December 10, 1966. They enjoyed 56 years together. Lynn served in the Air Force and the military took them on many adventures throughout their marriage. Eventually, they settled in North Pole, Alaska and raised their family. Later, they retired to Greenville, South Carolina to be near their daughter’s family. One of Linda’s greatest accomplishments was graduating with honors from the University of Alaska Fairbanks at the age of 52 with a bachelor’s of Elementary Education. She taught first grade for several years for the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District. She was a beloved teacher, and her students were blessed to be taught by her. Linda’s greatest joy came from serving others and by sharing her love of Jesus with those around her. She was an active member of Praise Cathedral Church and she faithfully ministered to the homeless at the Triune Mercy Center. If a friend or church member was sick, Linda would send them cards, bookmarks, and words of encouragement. Her servant’s heart touched many lives. Linda is survived by her loving husband, Lynn and their two children, Scott Tompkins (Madeline) of the United Kingdom, and Kelly Hooper (Jeffrey) of Hickory, North Carolina, and her four grandchildren, Ethan Hooper, Evan Hooper, Lucas Tompkins, and Cameron Tompkins. She is also survived by her two sisters, Diane Garcia and Suzan Chadwell, and countless nieces, nephews, and her church family at Praise Cathedral and the Praise Village community. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at Praise Cathedral at 3:00 PM. Memorials may be made to the Church of God Home for Children at P.O. Box 430, Mauldin, SC 29662. Online condolences may be made at www.thewoodmortuary.com.

Linda Tompkins

May 1, 1945 - October 26, 2023