Linda Nash Means

Linda Nash Means, 82, died on May 21, 2024 in Jamsion, PA. Born in El Dorado, Linda graduated from Junction City High School in 1960. In 1959 she married Robert Burke and in 1961 they were blessed with a son, Thomas Alan.

While attending Southern State College under a vocal scholarship in the 60's, Linda was frequent soloist in local churches and appeared in several productions at Southern Arkansas Arts Center. She is best remembered for her role as Mother Abbess in The Sound of Music. In 1968, the family moved to Hattiesburg, MS where she continued her education at USM. During her college years, she studied with two renowned artists: Metropolitan Opera soprano Marjorie Lawrence and Covent Garden bass, Marian Nowakowski. She appeared as soloist at both The University of New Orleans and with USM Singers and Orchestra. In 1975, Linda graduated with honors from USM and was subsequently granted a Graduate Fellowship for further study there. In 1978, after Linda and Robert were divorced, Linda settled in Jackson, MS where she met the love of her life, Loren Bennett Means. They were married in 1982 and moved to Washington State where Loren was employed as President and CEO of a local bank. Linda worked part-time in real estate and did volunteer work for the arts community. She served as

Co-Volunteer Coordinator for Clark County for Washington's first International Children’s Festival.

After his retirement in 1991, Linda and Loren divided their time between homes in Washington’s San Juan Islands and Peoria, AZ. They pursued a common passion for travel, ultimately exploring the U.S. and every continent except Antarctica during retirement. In her spare time Linda continued singing, studied finance and investing, and indulged her love of reading.

Linda is survived by her husband Loren, son Thomas, stepchildren Kevin and Scott Means and Lori Arnold, seven step-grandchildren, two step great-grandchildren, and several nieces.

A private family burial will be scheduled at Smyrna Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Smyrna Cemetery, %Tommy Mattox, 842 Iron Mountain Road, El Dorado, AR 71730 or to a charity of the donor's choosing.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.youngsfuneralhome.com.