August 15, 1941—December 13, 2024

With sad hearts we announce the death of Linda Williams who died on Friday, December 13, 2024, with her husband, Frank, and loved ones by her side.

All are invited to the funeral at 10:00am on Saturday, January 18, at Saint Philip’s, as well as the reception that will follow in Saint Anne’s Family Center.

O God, whose mercies cannot be numbered: Accept our prayers on behalf of your servant Linda, and grant her an entrance into the land of light and joy, in the fellowship of your saints; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
—The Book of Common Prayer, Burial of the Dead, Rite II

Linda Williams was born in Sunrise, Wyoming on August 5, 1941.

At the end of her life Linda expressed the hope that her life journey would be an inspiration to others with chronic illness. She expressed a desire for peace and no more pain.

She and first husband Ed Guilford, moved from Colorado to Tucson in 1963, bringing their parents and many other family members with them. Linda had a life-long interest in health care, and ultimately became Director of Medical Records both at St. Joseph Hospital and Tucson Medical Center. She was very active in healthcare leadership development and training.

In 1973, Linda was diagnosed with early onset, Type I diabetes. This diagnosis would alter, shape, and create her future, but she never relinquished control to it. For over 50 years, Linda would say it was her choice to live in and with deep faith and not fear.

At that time she and Ed welcomed adopted daughters, Jennifer and Sara. These were most joyous moments, she would say. Despite having to end her career in healthcare early due to physical constraints, Linda never slowed down.

For nearly two decades she was camped at swim meets and soccer fields with her daughters. A significant purchase of an RV in the early 80’s would lead her and the girls all over Mexico to Northern Wyoming and everywhere in between. Every chance she got was an adventure to be had with the girls and family.

Linda and her soul mate, Frank, were married in 1997. Never to sit idle, or let physical limitations define her, she immersed herself in volunteering, a deep spiritual journey, and work with social causes she and Frank shared.

Linda was the Volunteer Coordinator for the Tucson Divorce Recovery program, and received the JC Penny Volunteer of the Year award from the Tucson Volunteer Center. She and Frank were Co-Directors of Tacheria, the Interfaith School of Spiritual Direction. For years, she held spiritual direction groups and provided individual spiritual direction for many.

The dearest of friends, Sufi Muslim Imam Jamal Rahman wrote, “Sister Linda was a saint filled to the brim with love, kindness, generosity, and graciousness. The beauty, innocence, and sacredness of her smile is stamped in my memory.” His thoughts are echoed by so many.

Linda lived a very brave, very passionate, and very committed life. A true warrior, a “lioness,” her life was filtered through all shades of beautiful purple, books, stunning altars, her love for Frank, their work together, and connections to beloved, spiritually-bound friends.

Linda is survived by her beloved husband Frank, her daughters, Jennifer (Guilford) Kierstead; Sara (Guilford) White (Mike); her grandchildren Drayce, Jax, and Amelia; step-children Kristine, David (Lesley) and step-grandaughter, Ava; her brother Gary White; nieces and nephews Skylar, Spencer, Kristine, Mark, and Gary; and countless extended family.

The family thanks her caregiver, Silvia Hernandez, for her gentle loving care for the past two years.

Linda and family have asked that gifts in her memory be given to:
Sister José Women’s Center
1050 S. Park Ave, Tucson, Az, 85719
(520) 909-3905