Tributes

Linda Kay Beekley December 12, 1947 - January 4, 2026 Linda, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, and servant of Christ, passed away peacefully in the care of Hospice and Palliative Care of Iredell County in North Carolina. She lived a life marked by faith, devotion to education, and service to others. Linda was born on December 12, 1947, and grew up in Strongsville, Ohio. She graduated from Strongsville High School in 1966, where she participated in the drill team and baton twirling. On January 27, 1968, Linda married the love of her life, Charles "Charlie" Beekley, at Highland Christian Church in Cleveland, Ohio. Their marriage began after a four-month engagement in a ceremony officiated by Rev. Eugene Beekley. Shortly afterward, Charlie served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and was stationed in Germany, where Linda joined him from August 1968 through September 1969. Their partnership was marked by deep commitment, shared faith, and mutual support that lasted more than 5 decades. After returning from Germany, she attended Ashland University and graduated in 1971. Linda and Charlie welcomed their son, Timothy, in 1981, while living in Ashland, Ohio. Linda devoted her professional life to teaching. Over a 30-year career, she taught kindergarten through sixth grade, first in Ohio and later with Frederick County Public Schools in Maryland, where she retired in 2010. She was known for dedication to her students, her patience, and her belief in the potential of every child. In addition to her work as an educator, Linda faithfully served the Brethren Church as a missionary, writer, and leader in family ministry. She led Vacation Bible School, wrote Bible studies and curriculum, trained and served Crusaders, and shaped countless lives through teaching and encouragement. Linda and Charlie moved to Frederick, Maryland in 1990 to plant Mountain View Brethren Church. In 2012, Linda and Charlie moved to Mooresville, North Carolina, to be near Tim, his wife Amy, and their growing family. Linda cherished her role as grandmother to Micah, Eli, and Caleb. Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Ed and Betty Smith, and by her beloved husband of 54 years, Reverend Charles Beekley, who passed away in 2022. She is survived by her brother, James Smith; her son, Timothy Beekley and his wife, Amy; and her grandsons, Micah, Eli, and Caleb, who will carry forward her legacy of faith, kindness, and devotion to family. The family will receive friends on Sunday, January 18 from 3:00-4:00 PM with a service following at 4:00 PM in the Chapel of Cavin-Cook Funeral Home with Rev. Larry Paulk officiating. Cavin-Cook Funeral Home & Crematory, Mooresville, is serving the Beekley family. Condolences may be made to the family at www.cavin-cook.com.