Linda Sue Cleaver

April 19, 1943 - September 30, 2012

Visitation for Linda Sue Cleaver was held on Wednesday, October 3, 2012 at Mish Funeral Home (120 Minner Avenue) from 5 to 7 p.m.Graveside funeral services will be held today, Thursday, October 4, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. at Hillcrest Memorial Park (9101 Kern Canyon Rd.).

Linda Sue Reed (Murphy, Cleaver), born to Jack and Ione (Coffin) on April 19, 1943, entered into the presence and arms of her Lord and Savior on September 30, 2012.

Linda was born, raised and resided in Bakersfield, California all her life and attended Bakersfield High School. A lifelong Driller! On May 7, 1960 she married her absolute one and only true love Gerald "Jerry" Howard Murphy. Together they brought into this world and their lives, two daughters, Dawn Marie born on Linda's twentieth birthday (a lifelong and very precious bond they shared together) and Dyna Leigh, two years later on May 6, 1965.

Linda (Mom) was a retired "die hard" employee of the County of Kern Eligibility Worker and one of the last to endure the days of hand written forms and applications prior to the ease of our computer era. Her stories about this were endless and a focus of much laughter she gave to us all.

Linda (mom) was always known for her elaborate and sometimes breathtaking Christmas decorations. Christmas was her favorite time of year. She spent hours hand making these sparkling beauties for our families to treasure forever.

Linda (Mom) was a God loving and God fearing devout child of God. She will be sorely and deeply missed by all who knew her. Her dancing eyes, contagious smile and spirited opinions were absolutely unforgettable, lovingly embraced and sometimes even forgiven!

She is preceded in death by Gerald "Jerry" Howard Murphy, Arliss E. Cleaver, Jack Reed and Ione M. Coffin.

She is survived by her two daughters, Dawn M. Murphy Leonis, Dyna L. Murphy-Smith and grandchildren Breanne Hughes, Amanda Christie, Paul T. Hayslett II, Amber Hayslett, Jacob G. H. Hayslett, Bethaney Moore, Brandi Moore and Linda’s “PITA” Anthony Lucas Leonis, Great Grandchildren Carson Paul, Gavin and Preston Guess and Bradyn Hayslett.

Special love and appreciation to mom's best friend Linda Bauer for her life-long devotion and friendship.

Mish Funeral Home