Linda Darleen Johnson

She was born on May 2, 1953, in Nashville, Tennessee, daughter of Buenie C. Gann and Agnes A. McDavid.

Linda lived life with a spark that was impossible to miss. Known for being both fun-loving and feisty, she was the kind of woman who told you exactly what she thought with a wink and a smile. Whether she was cheering from the sidelines or serving up coffee, Linda’s personality was as bold and bright as her favorite team colors.

Linda’s heart belonged to the Washington Commanders and the Florida State Seminoles. On game days, you didn’t just watch football with Linda—you experienced it. Her passion for the sport was a testament to her high-energy spirit. In her younger years, that same competitive drive was seen at the bowling alley, where she was a staple on local leagues, knocking down pins with the same tenacity she applied to everything in life.

For many years, Linda was the face of the Cozy Oaks Restaurant in Lakeland, Florida. To her, waitressing wasn't just a job; it was a stage. Customers didn’t just come for the food; they came for

Linda’s sharp wit and impeccable service. She had a way of making every regular feel like family and every stranger feel like a regular, leaving a lasting impression on the Lakeland community through decades of morning rushes and shared laughs.

Away from the hustle of the restaurant and the roar of the stadium,

Linda found her peace in good music. Her soul resonated with the smooth R&B sounds of The Manhattans and the classic country storytelling of Tracey Lawrence. Music was the backdrop to her life, a reflection of a woman who appreciated rhythm, soul, and a good story.

Linda didn’t need a long list of hobbies to define her. She was defined by her feisty grit, her loyalty to her teams, and the genuine connections she made across a restaurant counter. She leaves behind a legacy of laughter, a bit of sass, and a reminder to always play—and cheer—with your whole heart.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Wesley A. Johnson; her mother, Agnes A. Gibson; her father Buenie C. Gann; and her brother Oliver “Ollie” A. Gann.

She is survived by her loving children, Sean M.Gann, Marvin A. (Alexis) Gann, Marcus A. Gann, Michele E. (Andre) Epps and Marissa L. Gann; her children’s father, Alfred “Fred” Newman; siblings, Buenie “Butch” L. (Karen) Gann, Jackie C. (Pattie) Martin, Anette D. (David) Milladge, Theresa A. Martin, Jerry L. (Maggie) Martin and Lisa M. (Larry “boyfriend”) Satchell; 14 grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.