Linda Charleen Osborne Packard's Obituary
Our beautiful, loving, vibrant mother, Linda Charleen Osborne Packard, returned to her heavenly home and the arms of her sweetheart, David, on December 17, 2024. A devoted wife and mother and adoring “Ahnna”, Linda was born on June 15, 1940 in Murray, Utah. The third of seven children born to John Evan Osborne and Theola VanSeters, Linda grew up in Alpine, Utah and graduated from American Fork High School with the slogan, “happy at work and merry at play.” A dedicated daughter, Linda worked hard as her mother’s right hand, helping to raise her twin brothers and baby sister. She attended beauty college, graduating as a cosmetologist and commuted to Salt Lake City where she stayed with a dear aunt and uncle during the week. One Thursday night she attended the M-Men and Gleaner dance and caught the eye of a charming and handsome young man named David Packard. That evening, he talked the stunning redhead into letting him take her home, beating out several other young men who had also offered her a ride. Four months later, on April 13, 1961, David and Linda were married in the Salt Lake Temple for time and all eternity. They were blessed with six beautiful children: Kerrie, David Jr., Kim, Kristie, Karman and Kevin.
Dave and Linda lived in Bountiful for a time where their first daughter Kerrie was born. They then moved back to the Salt Lake area where David Jr. joined the family. Tragically, David was only on earth five days. A year and half later the family was blessed with daughter number two, Kim. They moved a few more times before relocating to Simi Valley, California where daughters three and four, Kristie and Karman, were born. Linda’s precious son, Kevin, became the best birthday present she ever gave David. The family loved celebrating their double birthday every year. After thirteen years in Simi, Dave, Linda and their five little K’s moved back to Utah, settling in Sandy, making music and memories from that time forward.
Linda’s life was one of service, joy and, above all, love. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, she was the spiritual center of our home. She served in many church callings including the Young Women’s Mutual Improvement Association (MIA) and Primary and Relief Society Presidencies. Linda used her talents to bless others in so many ways including giving free haircuts, especially to missionaries, and, in the 80’s, lots of perms! One of our fondest childhood memories was to hear the wheat grinder running, knowing there would be freshly baked bread and an evening of ding dong ditching delicious hot bread on the neighbors’ doorstep. She had a gift for preserving, especially peaches, tomatoes and incredible homemade salsa. Her fried chicken was unsurpassed and her three-tiered chocolate cake was the pinnacle of every birthday. Everyone was always welcome, and many of her children’s’ friends became honorary family members. There were times Linda would return from work to find a kitchen full of teenagers and, unfazed, would just join in making sure everyone had something to eat. She also had the incredible talent of sewing, making Halloween costumes, providing alterations, making doll clothes, sewing matching dresses for her four daughters and later, prom and bridesmaid dresses. She loved giving hand sewn gifts, especially nightgown and peignoir sets and satin pillowcases.
In her later years Linda loved to reconstruct and resew, adjusting clothing pieces specifically to her. She took little dolls and transformed them into the Holy Family, giving nativity sets of Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus dressed in handmade clothing.
In her professional life, Linda wore many hats. She spent several years in the jewelry industry, helping people find the perfect piece for the occasion. The beauty of jewelry became a treasured hobby and she loved the art of collection. She had immense pride in her ten-year career with Southwest Airlines, retiring with lifetime flight benefits. She loved her work and, because of her bright, sunshine-y personality, was put on several task forces including Southwest’s Goodwill Ambassador team. She traveled all over, bringing joy to Southwest employees everywhere. Linda had a spotless record, never missing a day of work calling in sick or arriving late. Because of her determination she earned “buddy passes” which she then gave to family members, creating opportunities for them to travel as well. She loved nothing more than to be able to hop on a plane with Dave and fly somewhere just for the day, or to visit a family member, a new city or be a part of trips planned with her kids.
Linda leaves behind a legacy of effervescent sunshine, kindness and unwavering support. Her greatest joy and achievement was her children, and we are so humbled and grateful to have “won the mom lottery.” She was our biggest fan and cheerleader as she attended plays, concerts, band gigs, and performances and events of every kind. From her eldest child’s marching band and piano performances, to her youngest grandchild’s dance concert or baby blessing, family was everything to her. She loved her extended family and gathered with them often, forming lifelong, cherished friendships. She opened her heart and home to everyone, having children, grandchildren and a beloved nephew living with them in the Sandy house at one time or another. The last seven years, Linda loved her home in St. George making quick friends and attending many events, often offering her time as an enthusiastic volunteer.
Linda is survived by her children Kerrie (Matt) Webster, Kim (Jonathan) Huefner, Kristie (Kevin) Carlisle, Karman (Ken) Wilson, and Kevin (Emily), twenty-three grandchildren, and twenty-one great-grandchildren, with three more on the way, two brothers, and a sister. Awaiting her return were many family members, especially her sweetheart, David and her son, David Jr.
The family would like to express their gratitude and specially acknowledge her dear neighbors, Tim and Barbara Allen and Rob and Alley Dunlap, and her brother, Robert Osborne, for the love and tender care you gave to our mother. She appreciated your sincere kindness and service to her and she loved you with all of her heart.
A celebration of Linda’s life will be held at 11:00 am, Friday, December 27, 2024 at the Green Valley Third Ward, 1282 W 500 S Circle, in St. George, Utah. All who attend are invited to wear a splash of pink, Linda’s favorite color. Interment will take place on December 30, 2024 at the Utah Veteran’s Cemetery and Memorial Park.
Thank you, mom. You were truly our angel mother.
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