Linda Wise

(From Parker Mortuary)

Linda Sue Wise, age 59 of Joplin, Missouri passed away peacefully surrounded by family and was welcomed into Heaven on December 19, 2015.

Linda’s life began November 15, 1956 in Oskaloosa, Iowa, daughter of Loren and Lois (Knoot) Lester. She graduated from Oskaloosa High School with the class of 1975. She completed her B.A. in Elementary Education and minor in music from William Penn University in 1978. She earned her M.A. in Humanities/Children’s Literature from California State University, Dominguez Hills in 1990.

Linda taught elementary school in both Denison and Ottumwa, Iowa with much of her focus on the Language Arts curriculum. She was a devoted and nurturing educator who spent countless hours providing encouragement, smiles, and instilling a love for learning to her students. She also served as an Adjunct Professor of English at Westmar University in LeMars, Iowa.

She met the love of her life, Phillip Wise, at William Penn University in the music department and they were united in marriage on October 6, 1979. They were blessed with their lovely daughter Madison, who was also her best friend. She is survived by her husband, daughter, treasured son-in-law Daniel, precious granddaughter Irene Rose Emery, brother and sister-in-law Bill and Rita Lester, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Linda was an active member of First Christian Church during the years she lived in Oskaloosa. Following a move to Joplin she became a member of Lowell Friends Church (Lowell, KS), where she assisted with making blankets for Project Linus and other Women's activities. Linda was very talented in musical threatre and performed in numerous productions. She had a beautiful voice and loved singing with her family, especially her granddaughter. She also relished attending Phil's performances and concerts throughout the years. Linda was a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother who was gifted in serving; always putting others before herself. She was an encourager, teacher, and faithful inspiration to many.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at First Christian Church, Oskaloosa, Iowa on December 28, 2015. Family Visitation: 10:00 am in the Narthex; Service: 11:30 am in the Sanctuary; Luncheon to follow in the Fellowship Hall. Condolences may be sent to Parker Mortuary , www.parkermortuary.com. According to Linda's wishes, the body has been cremated. In lieu of memorials, the family knows Linda would be honored if you would perform an unexpected act of kindness for someone. Flowers will be received at First Christian Church, 119 A Avenue East, Oskaloosa, IA 52577. A Memorial Service will take place at Lowell Friends Church (Lowell, Kansas) on January 2, 2016 at 2:00 pm.