Linda Jean Shade

Linda Jean Shade sadly passed away on November 16, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on July 11, 1943, Linda was a resident of Garfield, Arkansas. Her life was marked by her kind-hearted nature and generous spirit, traits that endeared her to all who knew her.

Linda was born in Big Springs, Texas to the late David Albin Watkins and Naomi Ruth (Ashley). Linda graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business communications from the University of Oklahoma, setting the stage for a successful career. She worked for Kerr-McGee Oil Company for over thirty years. After moving to Garfield, Linda later held a second career in real estate.

She shared a loving marriage with her husband, Larry Dean Shade, for over forty years. Their love story began at Kerr-McGee Oil Company, where it was love at first sight. Larry loved her from the very first time they met, and their bond remained strong throughout their lives together.

A huge Oklahoma Sooners fan, Linda was a season ticket holder for over 40 years. Her personal interests included avid reading, boating on Beaver Lake, and traveling all over the United States and Canada in their motorhome. They also enjoyed a trip to Italy and England with friends.

Linda was involved in her community as a member of the Lost Bridge Community Church for many years. Her compassionate and generous nature was evident in her dedication to helping others. She was always available to assist anyone in need, actively participating in community initiatives by donating food and clothes and volunteering with schools.

Linda Jean Shade leaves behind a legacy of kindness, compassion, and involvement. Her memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Linda is preceded in death by: parents, David and Naomi Watkins; and niece, Debbie Guschke.

She is survived by: husband, Larry Shade of Garfield, AR; step-sons, Shannon Shade of Edmund, OK, and Kenneth Shade of Las Vegas, NV; step-daughter, Erin Smith of Edmund, OK; sisters, Doris Watkins of Fort Worth, TX, and Nancy Potter of Edmund, OK; nephew, Matthew Beene of Los Angeles, CA; and nieces, Jessica Beene of Philadelphia, PA, and Ashley Sneddon of Wilsonville, Oregon; step-daughters, Janice Fisher McMurtrey of Oklahoma City, OK, and Marguerite Keesee of Chattanooga, TN. She is also survived by many extended family members and friends.

A visitation for Linda will be held on Wednesday, November 19th at Lost Bridge Community Church in Garfield from 10:00-11:00AM. Funeral service will follow immediately after beginning at 11:00AM, officiated by Pastor Hugh Wagner. Linda will be laid to rest at Ruddick Cemetery at 1:00PM.