OREGON – Linda Patton Erickson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away on Nov. 30, in Portland, at the age of 85.
Born on April 22, 1939, in Louisa, she was the daughter of Irene and Ward Patton and was raised in Louisa and Fallsburg.
Linda graduated from Pikeville High School and went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree in Education from Marshall University, followed by a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Maryland. Her dedication to education and service led her to work as a 4-H Youth Development Extension Agent, a Peace Corps volunteer, and a full professor of 4-H Youth Development at Oregon State University. She was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame.
In addition to her work in education, Linda was a Peace Corps volunteer in Liberia, where she met the love of her life, Paul T. Erickson Jr. They were married on Nov. 3, 1974, in Reno, Nevada, marking the beginning of a partnership filled with love, laughter, and shared adventures. Together, they created a life rich in service, family, and community. They celebrated 50 wonderful years of marriage last month surrounded by family and friends.
She is survived by her loving husband, Paul T. Erickson Jr.; children, Mark (Michele) Erick-son, Christina (Rich) Donoho and Stefanie (Ger-ald) Neubert; a brother, Paul Patton; a sister, Jo Stanfill; and her grandchildren, Rachel, Phillip, Arden, Mia, Camille, Melanie and Maurice.
Linda’s life was a testament to her dedication to others, and her legacy will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.
She leaves behind a world made better through her love, laughter, and tireless commitment to service. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Memorial services were Tuesday, Dec. 10, at Lincoln Memorial Park and Funeral Home, Port-land. Final resting place, Resthaven in Portland.
