Linda Marie Eakins

Linda Marie Eakins passed away on July 30, 2025, at the age of 66.

She was born on October 18, 1958, in Kirkwood, daughter of Coy Richard and Mary Virginia Moreland Eakins. Linda graduated from Kirkwood High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Southeast Missouri State University in December 1980. She majored in Office Administration and minored in Music. A talented violist, Linda performed in many concerts at Southeast Missouri State University and music remained a cherished part of her life. Linda was also a devoted St. Louis Cardinals fan who loved scrapbooking and crafting personalized ornaments for any occasion.

Linda pursued a successful career in financial telemarketing, starting with Vic Taney, a national chain of fitness centers. She went on to work for institutions such as Chevy Chase Bank, Dial America, First USA Bank and Wachovia. Her drive and dedication made her a respected professional in her field. To this day colleagues describe Linda as “achieving success with poise, intelligence, balanced wit, sound judgment, and an incredible sense of humor.” At the height of her career, Linda suffered a massive heart attack at age 37. In 2001 she returned to Missouri and settled in Jackson to recover and start a new chapter.

In the years that followed, Linda devoted herself to caring for her ailing parents, Coy and Mary Eakins, and later her uncle, L.T. Eakins. Her role as caregiver was marked by unwavering love and compassion. Sadly, her own health began to decline, and she was diagnosed with organ failure, receiving treatment at St. Louis University Hospital up until her passing.

Linda had a lifelong love for animals and was rarely seen without a pet by her side. She adored her dogs—Lady, Miss Kitty, and Kandi Kai—and her cats—Angel, Sneakers, and Snowshoes—all of whom preceded her in death. Her beloved cats, Gigi and Kotton will be placed in loving homes.

Affectionately known as “Miss Linda” by neighborhood children, she brought joy, warmth, and learning to those around her. Whether reading stories on her front porch, teaching the kids how to count vegetables in her garden, or handing out her legendary Halloween treats, Linda was a cherished presence in her community. Snow days were her favorite—eating French toast and watching the kids build snowmen filled her heart.

Though she left the corporate world behind, Linda maintained deep and lasting friendships across the country, staying closely connected with longtime friends in Virginia, Florida, New York, Maryland, Tennessee, and Pennsylvania. Linda’s close friends describe her as “genuine, loyal, and enduring.”

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Coy and Mary Eakins; her brother, Michael Eakins; and her uncle, L.T. Eakins.

Linda will be remembered for her vibrant personality, infectious laugh, quick wit, and boundless empathy. Those who knew her will carry forward her legacy of kindness and compassion.

A private interment will be held at Russell Heights Cemetery in Jackson, Missouri, where Linda will be laid to rest beside her beloved parents.

McCombs Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Jackson is in charge of arrangements.

Memorial donations may be made in her honor to semopets.org formerly the Humane Society of Southeast Missouri.