Linda Kay Dutton

Linda Kay Dutton, age 75, passed peacefully through Heaven’s Door on Thursday, November 14, 2024. She was born on January 11, 1949, and began her journey in life with a kind and gentle spirit that touched everyone she met.

Linda was a devoted and passionate schoolteacher, dedicating her life to educating and caring for children. Though she never had children of her own, she often spoke of her students as her “children,” loving them as if they were her own. Her students and colleagues remember her for her warmth, patience, and unwavering commitment to nurturing young minds.

A lover of animals, Linda had a deep and unique bond with her cats, and Tipp was a cherished companion throughout much of her life. It was no surprise to those who knew her that Linda’s understanding of animals mirrored the kindness she showed to all living things. She had a special gift for connecting with people and animals alike, and many were fortunate to call her a friend.

She leaves behind her family with heavy hearts: Karen Sue Muse of Hermitage, TN; Harry Dutton of Martins Ferry, OH; Scott Dutton of Bridgeport, OH; Marsha Scott of Wheeling, WV; and Betty Erbacher of Cadiz, OH.

Linda was preceded in death by her loving companion, her cat Tipp, and by her parents, mother, Betty Irene Theby Dutton, and her father, Harry Joseph Dutton II, both formerly of Wheeling, WV. She was also preceded by her siblings, Launa Strauss (formerly of Wheeling), Carla Baum (formerly of Glendale), Hershel Dutton (Martins Ferry, OH), and David Dutton (formerly of Venice, FL).

Linda spent her final days surrounded by loving hospice nurses who offered her care, strength, and prayers as she made her peaceful transition to her eternal home. Though Linda’s presence will be deeply missed, her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who knew her as one of the truly good and special people in the world.