Linda Lucy Murdock

February 19, 1948 – December 12, 2025

Linda Kirkaldy Black Murdock, 77, of Fairfield Township, Ohio, passed away peacefully at home on December 12, 2025. Born in Detroit, Michigan, on February 19, 1948, Linda lived a life full of love, laughter, and purpose.

She earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Miami University of Ohio and spent over 33 years teaching science in Fairfield City Schools. Linda wasn’t just a teacher—she was a mentor, a cheerleader for all, and a champion to countless students. Her passion for education and her ability to make learning exciting left an impact that will be remembered for generations.

Linda loved animals deeply and always had a house full of furry friends. Her beloved pets—Leonard, Penny, Aimee, Howie, Raj, Salem, Bernie, Tilly, Baylee, and her best fur buddy Buckeye—were her constant companions and a source of joy.

She was preceded in death by her father, James Kirkaldy; her mother, Betty Newkirk Kirkaldy; her husbands, Milbourn Black and Craig Murdock; her brothers, Jim and Robert Kirkaldy; and many cherished pets. She is survived by her siblings, Brad Kirkaldy and Kelly Kirkaldy Smoot; her daughter, Lisa Black; stepchildren, Wendy Murdock, Nicole Tank, and Alan Murdock; grandchildren Kaylee (“Bug”), Jared (“Boo”), Anthony (“Rocket”), and Elisabeth (“Too”), along with many other cherished family and friends she loved so dearly. Linda’s family and friends will remember her quick wit, her generous heart, and her ability to make everyone feel special.

Linda will be cremated, and a celebration of her life will be held in the spring—a time for family, friends, colleagues, and former students to gather, share stories, and laugh together in her honor.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Trenton Animal Hospital, Kitty Brew Café, His Hand Extended Sanctuary, Crayons for Computers, Fairfield Tempo Club, or the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation— all causes near and dear to Linda’s heart.