Linda Jean Edwards

Linda Jean Edwards, 74, of Westport, CT and Monmouth, IL, died at 8:45 p.m., Monday, December 14, 2015 at OSF St. Mary Medical Center, Galesburg, IL, of metastatic breast cancer.

Linda was born October 8, 1941 in Monmouth, the daughter of Howard G. and Regena (Howard) Miller. She was raised and educated in Monmouth, graduating from Monmouth High School in 1959. Linda graduated from Western Illinois University in 1963 with a Bachelor's Degree in Music.

She married Larry Lee Edwards on December 26, 1965 in Monmouth. He preceded her in death on January 6, 1998.

Linda was a music and special education teacher for over 30 years in Chicago, IL, Kansas City, KS, St. Louis, MO, and Westport and Weston, CT. She was an active member with the United Methodist Church of Westport and Weston and First United Methodist Church in Monmouth. Linda was an avid bridge player, a talented musician and singer. In college, she was cast as the female lead in Bye Bye Birdie, bringing the house down with her performance as Rosie. She played several instruments, including the tuba, double string bass, accordion, clarinet and piano. She often played instruments in community bands, bell choirs, and sang for many years in the church choir. She was active in her community and served as a volunteer with the American Red Cross, Girl Scouts, STAR, Inc.

Linda was a dedicated friend to many, often serving as a tireless caregiver to those in need. She had a wonderful laugh and an unwavering love for her family, who will miss her deeply.

Linda is survived by her daughter Sara (Anthony) Asuncion of Bethesda, MD, son Mark (Megan) Edwards of Westport, CT; five grandchildren: Michael and Evan Asuncion, Jack, Eliza and Finn Edwards. Also surviving is her father Howard G. Miller of Monmouth, one brother Gary (Mary Jo Hunter) Miller of St. Louis, MO, and one sister Rhonda K. (Jennifer Clarke) Miller of Lewisburg, PA. She was also preceded in death by her mother.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m., Saturday, December 19, 2015, at the First United Methodist Church in Monmouth. Cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial service and burial of her ashes will take place at a later date in Westport, CT. Memorials can be made to the First United Methodist Church, Monmouth or the United Methodist Church of Westport and Weston, CT. McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth is in charge of the arrangements.