Linda Salzer

(From Midland Cremation Society)

Linda Miles Salzer, 86, a vibrant soul who brought joy to many, passed away peacefully on February 22, 2025,with her husband of 65 years, Ebert, by her side.

Born April 27, 1938, in Brinkley, Arkansas, Linda's love of learning led her to graduate from DeWitt High School in 1956, then Joplin Junior College in 1958, and earn a Bachelor of Science in Education with a minor in Music from the University of Arkansas in 1960. She married Richard Ebert Salzer that same year, and they had two children, Shirin and Jeremy, whom she adored deeply.

Linda's passion for teaching touched countless lives. From California to Iran, Texas to Washington state, and finally Missouri, she taught with dedication and warmth in her various roles, including teaching at Oakland Child Care Centers, Principal at Shiraz International Community School in Iran, Special Education teacher in Lubbock, Texas, and music teacher in Bellingham, Washington. After earning her Master of Education from Texas Tech University in 1977, she returned to Joplin in 1981 and continued her work as a Special Education teacher at West Central and Cecil Floyd. She later taught second grade at Irving Elementary, and fifth grade and Reading Recovery at Eastmorland. Her dedication to her students extended beyond the classroom, as she also tutored children at home.

She retired in June 2003 and immediately started volunteering for her church, including providing communion through home visits and delivering Meals on Wheels. Her kindness, sense of humor, and unwavering compassion left a lasting legacy. She was fiercely loyal and loving to her friends, family, and the many animals that graced her life. Linda loved hearing stories about her friends' and family's pets, always laughing at their playful antics while also sharing in the worry and grief when they faced challenges.

Linda is survived by her beloved family: husband, Richard; their children, Shirin Salzer of Seattle, WA, and Jeremy Salzer of Jasper County, MO; as well as two grandchildren, Lydia Salzer and her husband, William Patrick, and Nicholas Salzer. She also leaves behind many dear friends, and all will miss her infectious laugh, beautiful smile, and quick wit.

A celebration of Linda's life will be held on her birthday, April 27, 2025, at St. Philip's Episcopal Church in Joplin. A service will be held at 3:00 p.m., followed by a reception from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. Linda's ashes will be lovingly interred in the church's columbarium. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to the Joplin Humane Society.