Linda “Jolene” Leach, 66, Chamois, passed away at her home on Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026.
She was born on Aug. 28, 1959, to the late John Harvey and Grace (Fry) Petty in Chillicothe.
She was united in marriage to Edwin Douglas Daniels in 1976. They were blessed with two children, Philip and Whitney. Later Linda married John Leach in May of 2001, who survives at the home.
She was 1978 graduate of Glasgow High School.
Linda was employed at American Recreation, where she was a seamstress and sewed sleeping bags for over 20 years, then at Morrison Apparel and before retiring, she was employed as a custodian at the Osage R-1 School.
Linda lived a life rooted in faith, curiosity and a love for people. A devoted Sunday School teacher, she faithfully served at First Baptist Church in Chamois and at Truth Tabernacle in Boonville, sharing wisdom, kindness and a deep love for God with generations of students.
Linda had a lifelong love of learning and connection, which even led to an appearance on Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, an experience that reflected her gentle spirit and appreciation for meaningful conversations.
In quieter moments, she found joy gardening, being outdoors, especially while hiking, exploring new places and going for long walks.
Antique malls were a favorite destination, where she delighted in discovering pieces of the past and the stories behind them.
Linda enjoyed the time she spent traveling with John to Florida to the beach for senior class trips and the family vacations to Colorado. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family, especially her two precious grandchildren.
Above all, Linda cherished simple pleasures such as time spent walking, exploring, teaching and nurturing faith and curiosity in others. These passions will be fondly remembered by all who knew and loved her.
She was preceded in death by parents, Harvey and Grace; and sister, Lora Morrow.
Linda is survived by loving husband, John of Chamois; son, Philip Daniels of Chamois; daughter, Whitney Lindsey and husband Adam of Gardner, Kan.; grandchildren, Aiden Matthew Lindsey and Wrenley Grace Lindsay; siblings, John Petty, Dale Petty and wife Barbara, Ricky Petty and Carol Brown.
Visitation will be held from from 4 until 6 p.m,. Friday, Jan. 30, followed by a memorial service at the First Baptist Church in Chamois, with Rev. Jeremiah Abell officiating. An additional visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m., on Saturday, Jan. 31, followed by a memorial service at the Truth Tabernacle in Boonville, with Rev. Charles Cook officiating.
Inurnment will follow at the Mount Pleasant Cemetery in New Franklin.
Memorial contributions suggested to First Baptist Church of Chamois or the Truth Tabernacle Church of Boonville.
Arrangements entrusted to Millard Family Chapels in Chamois.
Condolences may be left for the family online at www.millardfamilychapels.com
