Linda H. McKinney

Linda Harris McKinney, of Raleigh, passed away on May 12, 2025, after a long and fulfilling life. 

Linda was born in Hyde County, North Carolina, attended Peace College in Raleigh for high school and the first two years of college, and earned both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in English from East Carolina University. 

Linda married the love of her life, Jimmy, in 1968, and the two began a life of adventure in Ethiopia, where Jimmy served in the US Army and she taught English at a local British school. They enjoyed weekends at the Red Sea and making new friends at their home away from home.

After returning to North Carolina, the two started a family, and Linda continued her teaching career. She transitioned from public school to the community college system, where she retired.

She found joy and beauty in the world around her, often expressed through her love of painting and the hours she spent tending her flowers and crafting. Her home was a reflection of her creative spirit and nurturing heart—a place filled with warmth, color, love, and peace.

Above all, Linda was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Her family was the center of her world, and she gave of herself freely to ensure they always felt loved, supported, and encouraged.

Linda is survived by daughter Heather (Travis) Burke; grandchildren, William (Adelaide) Daughtridge, Luke McKinney, Meredith Daughtridge, Catie McKinney, and Rhett McKinney; daughter-in-law, Mary-Margaret McKinney; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur Bell and Ada Tunnell Harris, sister Martha Harris, husband Jimmy McKinney, and son Dwight McKinney. 

Linda was taken back home and laid to rest in Fairfield Cemetery. Family and friends gathered at Fairfield Methodist Church with Pastor Jerald Craddock officiating. 

Though we mourn Linda's passing, we rejoice in the knowledge that she is now at peace, welcomed into eternal life by her Savior. Her love and light will remain with us always.

Arrangements were by Bryan Funeral Service, Swan Quarter.