Linda Joan Leathers

August 5, 1941 – July 4, 2026

Linda Joan Leathers was born on August 5, 1941, in Tulare, California, to Albert V. and Geneva Coleman, a woman whose life, from its very first chapter, was shaped by hard work, and faith.

Growing up in Porterville a small town in California, Linda spent her childhood moving alongside her father, a rancher whose livelihood took the family through Deer Creek, West Henderson Avenue, and beyond. Those early years instilled in her a quiet resilience and an appreciation for the simple, honest things in life. She attended Porterville High School, where she discovered one of her greatest joys, her voice, and graduated in 1959. As a member of the Glee Club, Linda found a gift she would carry with her for the rest of her life. As an alto with a natural talent for harmony, she went on to sing in her church choir and graced weddings and special occasions alongside her dear friend Joyce Turner.

In 1960, Linda married Dwight L. Leathers, and together they built a family. Over the next several years she welcomed four children into the world; Dwight, Albert (Allen), Grover, and her only daughter, Geneva, pouring herself into their upbringing of motherhood throughout the 1960s and 1970s. She also served with compassion as a nurse's aide at Sunset Haven Convalescent Home in Beaumont, California, caring for others came natural to her.

When life brought unexpected changes in 1979, Linda met the challenge with remarkable courage. At 39 years old, with four children and a new chapter ahead of her, she returned to school and earned her degree as a Psychiatric Technician. She went on to serve the patients of Porterville State Hospital for approximately 25 years. She didn't just work there; she loved it. To Linda, caring for the vulnerable was never just a job, it was a calling, and she answered it every single day.

In her later years, as dementia gently dimmed the world around her, Linda was surrounded by immeasurable love. Her daughter Geneva and son-in-law Samuel Contreras welcomed Linda into their home and cared for her with extraordinary devotion. Linda loved Sam as dearly as her own son, and that love was returned in full measure. A special little character about Linda was she love her cheeseburger!

Above all else, Linda loved the Lord with her whole heart. Her faith was the thread that ran through every season of her life, through the moves and the milestones, the struggles and the songs, and it is that same faith that assures those who loved her that she is now rejoicing in the presence of her Savior.

Linda entered eternity on July 4, 2026, a day of celebration.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Geneva Coleman, and her sister, Alberta Coleman.

She is survived by her four beloved children: Dwight Leathers; Albert (Allen) Leathers and his wife Brenda; Grover Leathers and his wife Melinda; and Geneva Leathers Contreras and her husband Samuel; as well as 5 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren, who carry her faith, and perhaps even her talent of singing.

Heaven's choir is richer for your voice.

A Service for Linda will be scheduled at a date and time to be announced by the family.

Please join us in remembering Linda Joan Leathers by visiting our Memorial at www.wordenchapel.com

Through this site, we invite you to view and share cherished photos and videos, share fond memories and expressions of sympathy for the Leathers Family or share the obituary with others via social media and email. Arrangements are under the direction of Palm Memorial Worden Chapel, Lori Whatley, Funeral Arranger