Linda Kay Powell, 67, died peacefully at home in Lawrence, Kansas on Monday, July 5, 2021, after living with ALS for the past three years.
Linda was born on April 14, 1954 in Wichita, Ks, the daughter of Helen R. and James F. Powell. She graduated from Wichita Heights High School in 1972 and then went on to attend the University of Kansas graduating with a BA degree in 1976.
After graduating from KU, Linda returned to Wichita and was manager of the Looking Glass Restaurant. Within a few years, along with other business partners, Linda had opened the Marple Theater, which featured foreign and classic films, live entertainment, and food & drink. Unfortunately, it was an idea too far ahead of the revitalization of the Old Town district in Wichita. In the early 80s Linda moved to Kansas City where she was Director of Broadcast for the Talent Plus talent agency. She was later the general manager for the American Heartland Theater in Kansas City, Missouri.
In 1994 Linda met the love of her life and moved to Lawrence, Kansas once again. The last years of her working life were spent as an Associate Analyst for the Federal Student Aid Information Center employed by Vangent and General Dynamics IT.
Linda is survived by her partner/spouse of 27 years, Margaret Holdeman, and her Emotional Support Miniature Schnauzer, Cooper. She is also survived by her brother Rick Powell (Genelle), niece Erin Petersen (Jake), niece Lara Sayler (Andrew), great nephews and nieces Eli, Grace, Caroline, James, and Isaac, all of whom she loved dearly. In addition, she is survived by her Best Friend for over 40 years, Kevin Mitchael (Christian Cesari) and her surrogate family Anne Hyde and children Iris, Auggie, and Greta.
Linda was cherished by a wide circle of friends; she was loved by all for her warm heart, wit, creativity, positive outlook, intelligent conversation, curiosity, playfulness, compassion and life insights.
There will be a Celebration of Life yet to be scheduled in late August or September.
Memorials may be made to the ALS Association Mid-America Chapter in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, P.O. Box 1260, Lawrence, Kansas 66044.
Margaret, Rick, Genelle, and family please know that I am thinking and praying for you today. I’m so glad that my Dad and Helen introduced me to Linda when I was just a youngster.
There need to be more people like Linda in the world.
Linda was a special friend to me from late Jr. high through college at KU. I always admired her kindness and her intellect.
Margaret, I’m sorry to hear of your loss. Although I didn’t know Linda , I remember her twinkling eyes and sunny smile from the times we met.
Margaret, we are so sorry for your loss. What a special person Linda was. Thinking of you and praying for strength and peace.
Margaret, Rick, Genelle and family, please accept our sincere sympathies. So glad we were able to know Linda. We remember the years she lived in Wichita. We often think that Old Town today would love her ideas and the Marple Theater. May she Rest In Peace. Our prayers are with you.
Class mates from the 60’s & 70’s. I wished to follow her to college but Uncle Sam had other plans for me, Viet Nam. Sending my prayers & condolences to her loved ones. Coleman – Heights was our friendship.
Margaret, l am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. Your selfless dedication to Linda is just who you are—an inspiration to all.
margaret, Holli and I are sad to here of Linda’s passing. I miss her greatly. She and you are in my thoughts.
Linda was a wonderful person to know.! May her soul rest in peace. I met Linda through Margaret. Thoughts and prayers for you, Margaret and family.
Margaret, I have long admired your devotion to Linda. I am relieved that she is no longer having to fight ALS, such a cruel disease. You will be on my list and in my heart as you grieve for your dear Linda.
Linda and my lives intersected in Wichita in the early 80s when I had a graphic design business and we produced programs for some of her productions at the Marple with Kevin. Her passing brings me sadness, but I am grateful to have been touched by her grace. Please let me know when her celebration of life will occur.
Dear Margaret, So sad to hear about Linda. I am holding you in the light.
So very sorry for your loss. Poor Linda is free of that body now. You were the best thing in her life and loved her through out her illness. You are in my prayers.
You are in my thoughts and prayers. Take great care Margaret.
Margaret, I am so sorry about Linda She was so special, I will miss her visits. Will be thinking of you.
Linda Lester
Ms Holdeman, I’m saddened to learn of your loss . . . Condolences, and prayers for strength to all.
It was such a blessing for you and Linda to be in each other’s lives. You will be in my prayers this week as you cope with this very sad loss.
I am so sorry for your loss, Margaret, and others who loved Linda. I always thought she was interesting and now I know why. She had a fascinating life, not tied to one thing. May we all have her genuine care and interest in others.