Linda Dianne Charles

Linda Dianne Charles passed away on December 21 at Westland House from complications of Parkinson’s disease. Born in Pensacola, Florida, to Jean and Lucia Kirsch, she experienced a nomadic childhood as the daughter of a Navy officer. Her early years included three formative years in Hawaii, fostering her love for change, new friends, and adventure.

Linda earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mathematics education from Florida State University. After moving to Los Angeles, she taught elementary school in Long Beach while pursuing a Ph.D. in mathematics education at USC. Though she regretted not completing her dissertation, a career shift led her to Palo Alto, where she became a consultant, editor, and eventually the author of dozens of math instructional resources used nationwide.

She co-authored Mathland, a groundbreaking program for elementary math education that became California's top-rated curriculum in the early 2000s. Later, she helped launch Classroom Connect, which integrated the internet into classroom learning.

In 2002, Linda retired to Carmel, where her interests shifted. She served on the Big Sur Land Trust board and volunteered at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which became her lifelong passion. As a guide for 15 years, she delighted in sharing her love of marine life, particularly octopuses. Even when health challenges ended her volunteering, she remained a regular visitor.

Linda also co-founded the Monterey chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby, advocating for federal carbon taxes and educating the community on climate change.

Her greatest joy was her role as a stepmom to Carrie and Kim, and later to their husbands, Dan and Matt, and her five grandchildren: Macy, Katie, Lucas, Ryan, and Zoe. She cherished family gatherings, shared books and photos with the children, and encouraged curiosity, confidence, and happiness. Another significant joy in her life were her two dogs, Shamrock and Clover.

Linda also treasured her wide circle of friends, engaging in spirited dinner conversations and traveling with her husband Randy and friends. She is survived by Randy, her stepdaughters and their families, her brother Michael Kirsch (Babette) and her sister Susan Chase (Rusty Diamond).

The family deeply appreciates the exceptional care provided by Dr. Sharon Wesley, who guided Linda’s medical journey with compassion and expertise. Special thanks also go to the staff at CHOMP, including Dr. Hightower, Dr. Halamandaris, Melissa Rosenthal, and Dr. Packer, the dedicated team at Westland House, as well as Dr. Veliz and Chris Regan at Carmel Valley Manor.

Linda’s humor and optimism were unwavering. When people expressed sympathy for her Parkinson’s, she would smile and say, “Everybody is going to get something!” She was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.

To celebrate Linda’s life, please donate to the Monterey Bay Aquarium in her honor.