Linda Heckle Obituary

Linda Heckle

September 21, 1943 - March 29, 2026

West Columbia, South Carolina - Linda Eason Heckle, devoted wife and mother, faithful Christian, and cherished friend, passed away on March 29th, 2026, at the age of 82. Born on September 21st in Valdosta, GA, but raised across the state line in Jennings, FL, Linda lived a life defined by generosity, strength, service, and a deep commitment to the Lord and the people she loved.

Linda was a Seminole and a Tar Heel, graduating from FSU and UNC Chapel Hill. Her professional career began as a math teacher, and although she transitioned to guidance, education remained her lifelong focus. She served as Director of Guidance at Lexington High School and later at Lexington Middle School. She also spent decades as a devoted member of Delta Kappa Gamma (DKG), serving roles in local and state chapters, winning many awards and accolades over her 50-year membership tenure. Every summer, family vacations included attendance at the annual convention and as a result, she was quite well-travelled.

Her career was important, but family was at the center of Linda's life. She and her husband could never quite remember what year they married, and a friend would call each year to remind her which anniversary it was. They were married just a few months shy of 50 years when he passed in 2018. She was a loving and devoted mother to daughter Elizabeth Lee, and she took great pride in caring for and supporting her immediate and extended family in both joyful and difficult times.

Linda's faith was perhaps her defining value. She was an active and devoted member of Northside Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday School for four decades. Her "Vessels of Light" (as the class named themselves) are well known in the community for their acts of service. She found her life's purpose in this fellowship and giving. Her faith guided every aspect of her life - shaping her compassion for others and her belief in connection, kindness, forgiveness, and grace.

Friends knew Linda as someone who listened deeply and cared with words and deeds. She had a gift for making others feel welcome and valued, whether through a phone call, a note, a quiet visit, or simply being there. Her friendships were marked by loyalty, thoughtfulness, and genuine concern for others.

Linda is remembered for her insight, strength, laughter, and dedication. She lived for connection. Her impact is reflected in the many lives she touched with a kind gesture or caring word.

Linda is survived by her daughter, Elizabeth Lee; her brother Jim Eason (Debbie) and his children Melissa Bell (Matt), Heather Eason, and Jonathan Eason; nieces Kim Keisler (Terry), Kathy Kozma (Chris), and nephew Mark Heckle (Ellen) . She was preceded in death by her parents, Celeta and Vernon Eason, her brother-in-law Julius, her nephews Trip and Don; and her beloved husband, Wiiliam H. Heckle.

A service to celebrate Linda's life was held on April 3rd at Northside Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Northside Baptist Church.