Linda A Toole

Linda A. Toole peacefully went home to her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on July 13, 2024 at the age of seventy-eight. She was a caring wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. 

Linda was born to Harold and Janice Merritt in May of 1946 in the small farm town of Walker, Iowa. As the oldest of eight siblings, she would be raised in a fun and loving household. After high school Linda moved to Chicago to attend Moody Bible Institute. During this time, she met the love of her life, Rich, in March of 1966 and married in September 1968. Their love story spanned an incredible 55.5 years creating a bond that could not be broken. Rich and Linda have been faithful members of Marquette Manor Baptist Church for 43 years and taught first grade Sunday School together for over 31 years.  

Becoming parents was a highlight in their marriage, having 3 kids. Those 3 kids blessed them with 14 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. Spending time with family was always a priority for Linda and Rich.  

Linda enjoyed playing scrabble with her mom and sisters, crossword puzzles and reading. For many years she was a beloved kindergarten teacher. Eventually she switched to accounting and worked for Crown, Cork and Seal for many years. After retiring, she spent most of her time traveling with Rich visiting their many grandchildren.  

Linda is survived by her husband, Rich; her children, Marcy Wells (Bruce) of Cedar Park, TX; Brian Toole (Elisabeth) of South Bend, IN and Nancy Raines (David) of Florence, SC; and 14 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. Linda was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Sandy Lewis, niece Jeni Newland and nephew Nicolas Merritt.  

Linda will always be remembered for her strong faith, sense of humor, quick wit and her devotion to family and friends. She will be greatly missed.  

If you would like to make a contribution in Linda's memory to Marquette Manor Baptist  Academy where she taught  K-5 for many years. .  https://marquettemanoracademy.org/resources/donate/ 

There will be a viewing from 9:AM -10:15AM  

A Celebration of Life service is scheduled for Saturday, July 20, 2024 at 10:30 AM, at Marquette Manor Baptist Church, located at 333 75th Street Downers Grove, IL 60516. Following the service, Linda will be laid to rest at Clarendon Hills Cemetery in Darien, IL. A reception will be held at Marquette after the graveside service.