Lynda K. Olmstead

Lynda graduated from Central High School in Muskogee before continuing her education at Oklahoma State University, where she earned her degree in education.

Lynda began her teaching career in Longmont, Colorado. Feeling called to further serve students with specialized needs, she pursued a degree in education for the blind at Peabody University in Tennessee. After completing her studies, she was hired by the Indiana School for the Blind in Indianapolis, where she devoted the next 30 years to changing and enriching the lives of countless students. Many of her former students remained in touch throughout the years, remembering her as a beloved and influential teacher. Throughout her distinguished career, Lynda was recognized for her service and accomplishments, including being named a Kentucky Colonel. She retired from teaching in 2001.

Family was the cornerstone of Lynda’s life. She spent her summers in Oklahoma with her loved ones, especially cherishing time with her niece and nephew after their births. Lynda had a deep love for family history and spent countless hours researching and documenting her ancestry, carefully preserving stories and memories for future generations. She also captured life’s moments through photographs, creating a treasured visual history of the family she loved so dearly.

In 1985, Lynda met the love of her life, Thomas Bottorff. Together they built 40 years of happiness and partnership, marrying in 2005. That same year, Lynda’s mother moved in with them, and Lynda and Tom lovingly cared for her until her passing.

Lynda will be remembered for her unique and infectious laugh, her love of playing games, and her lifelong passion for reading—especially reading aloud to others. She took great pride in caring for and decorating her home and found joy in crafting. She was someone who always remembered birthdays and anniversaries, making others feel valued and loved.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Luther and Juanita Olmstead, and her brother, Michael Olmstead.

She is survived by her loving husband, Thomas Bottorff; her niece, Michelle Olmstead; her nephew, Keith Olmstead; and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews from both her family and Tom’s family.

Above all, Lynda will be remembered for her kindness, devotion, and the countless lives she touched as a teacher, partner, family member, and friend. Her legacy of love, generosity, and dedication will live on in all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Bosma Visionary Opportunities Foundation, helping provide enrichment to the lives of the blind: https://www.bosma.org/foundation 6270 Corporate Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46278.