Linda Sue Wilbanks

Linda Sue (McCrary) Wilbanks, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by love on Saturday April 26, 2025.

Born on June 17, 1943, in Huntsville, Alabama, Linda was the youngest of six siblings. She endured great loss early in life when one of her siblings died in a house fire, and over the years, she lovingly said goodbye to each of her brothers and sisters, with her last remaining sibling, Chigger McCrary, passing just two days before her. Linda graduated from S.R. Butler High School in 1961 and immediately began her career at NASA, a source of great pride. In 1963, she married the love of her life, Phillip E. Wilbanks. Together, they raised two children—Phillip G. Wilbanks and Joanna (Wilbanks) Whisenant (Scott)—and built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and hard work.

In 1977, Linda and Phillip founded Wilbanks Land Surveying Company, where she managed payroll, accounting, and anything else that needed to be done. With determination and grace, she helped grow the company into a successful business that they proudly retired from in 2016. After retirement, Linda devoted herself to her grandchildren—Ryan Whisenant, Casey Whisenant. She cherished every moment spent with her family and church friends.

A lifelong member of First Baptist Church of Hazel Green, Linda served faithfully in many roles—Sunday School teacher, Acteens mentor, choir member, and committee volunteer. She often traveled with her husband as he ministered to various churches and retirement homes, sharing her love and light wherever she went.

Linda was known for her quick wit, infectious laughter, and deep love for people. She had a voracious appetite for books—often reading five at a time, with one by her bedside, in her purse, in the car, by her chair, and out by the pool. She also loved crossword puzzles, Bible journaling before it became trendy, and cheering on the Atlanta Braves with unmatched devotion.

Before her stroke in 2015, Linda was a force of nature—an avid swimmer, walker, and aerobics enthusiast who could outpace anyone. She cherished time spent with her Sunday School class, her sisters and nieces, and her beloved Friday group at Gentle Touch Salon.

Her favorite Bible verse, Isaiah 40:31, perfectly captures her strength and spirit: “But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.”

Linda’s legacy of love and service lives on through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchild, and many precious nieces and nephews.

Special Thanks

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the many individuals and organizations who offered love, support, and care during Linda’s final months:

• Sarah Kendall – Your compassion, intuition, and fierce dedication brought peace to our home. You are family.

• Scott, Ryan, and Casey – Thank you for your unwavering love and support for Mom.

• Paul Kendall – For your many acts of kindness, big and small, that made Mom’s life easier.

• Lola and Cooper – For being the kind of neighbors every person deserves.

• First Baptist of Hazel Green – For your steadfast love and spiritual support.

• Axient/Astrion Work Family – Thank you for understanding the importance of family and supporting me during this time.

• Friends and family – For every card, prayer, visit, and call—we felt your love.

• Aveanna Home Health and Hospice of Alabama – For your gentle care and professionalism.

• Bowers Plumbing – For always showing up when needed.

• Valerie Thomas – For bringing notary services into our home with grace.

• Laura Gentle at Gentle Touch Salon – For your kindness and visits that lifted Mom’s spirits.

• Kathy Walker – For your faithful companionship to Mom and Sarah.

• Valhalla Funeral Home – For your unmatched compassion and care throughout both Mom and Dad’s services. We felt seen and loved.

Pallbearers will be; Scott Whisenant, Ryan Whisenant, Casey Whisenant, Larry Stolz, Scotty McCrary, and Paul Kendall.

Honorary Pallbearers will be; Kenny McCrary, Benny McCrary, Jeff McCrary, and Tommy Ray.

We are certain Linda is now reunited with her beloved husband and siblings, walking strong once more with her Savior.

Services will be held in her honor on Friday, May 2nd, 2025 at Valhalla Funeral Home and Memory Gardens – 698 Winchester Rd NE, Huntsville, AL 35811 with a visitation from 1:00 PM-2:00 PM with a funeral service to follow at 2:00 PM.