Linda Hawes

Linda Jeannine Hawes, 76, passed away peacefully in her sleep on April 29, 2026. She was preceded in death by her parents, Mark and Anita Hawes; her sister, Charlotte; and her brothers Mark and Tom. Linda is survived by her daughter, Katherine Hawes-Highers, her husband, Jim Highers, her granddaughter Kathryn Highers; her brother, Pat Hawes, his wife Maira; her sister Dorothy Hawes Benson, her husband Keyton; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Linda was born on January 2, 1950, in Gainesville, Florida, and spent most of her life in Tampa. After retiring from Equifax, she made her home in New Port Richey, where she lived for the last decade.

Linda was a voracious reader and always had books nearby. She was an avid quilter and found deep joy in creating with her hands—working with colorful textiles. She loved bright colors and the satisfaction of making something beautiful and lasting. In her later years, she embraced new skills and excelled at Ice Dying deconstructed silk liners from vintage kimonos, giving them vibrant new life and allowing them to be made into striking, wearable pieces. She enjoyed traveling to workshops and exhibitions, always desiring to learn more about the textile arts. Many of the quilts Linda made remain treasured and well used by many in her family.

A graveside memorial service will be held for family members at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Tifton, Georgia.