Linda Sly

Linda K. Sly, 73, of New Providence, passed away on January 31, 2023 in her sleep after a long struggle with Leukemia.

Linda was born on March 28, 1949 to Marjorie W. and Harry St. John in Arkansas and was raised by her step-father “Skeeter”. Linda grew up in Iowa, moved to Colorado, back to Iowa again to graduate from Marshalltown High School in 1967. Then after, moved to Missouri then back to Iowa again.

In 1972, Linda had her first child, Mike, with her first husband Arthur Inman. In 1977, Linda met Kenneth Sly while she was sorting corn in the field. They lived together a few years before marrying in 1981. Linda and Kenneth went on to have two daughters, Nicole and Tiffany. From their marriage she gained a step-son, Tony, and a step-daughter, Lisa.

Linda spent the majority of her early life taking care of her younger sister Sheryl, becoming almost like a mother to her. Later, Sheryl’s death left her heartbroken as she was her last remaining family member.

For most of her life, Linda was seen creating - painting, drawing, crocheting, sewing, cooking. Anything she could get her hands on.

Linda never went a day without calling her best friend of over 40 years, Marlene. She could talk your ear off whether on the phone, in line at the grocery store, in the parking lot, at the doctor’s office. Literally anywhere. She never met anyone who was a stranger. Her house was the hub for all teenagers from the 90’s all the way to the 2010’s. You could always expect a home-cooked meal and all the snacks imaginable. You never left the Sly’s hungry. She welcomed anyone and everyone. Blessing her with so many “honorary children” and “honorary grandchildren”.

Linda worked doing many odd jobs before settling at the New Providence post office - which she worked at for 6 years. Then much later began working over-nights at Quakerdale for 6.5 years. After retiring she spent her time leisurely surrounded by family, mostly her grandchildren. She began collecting baby dolls and revisited her interest in art with intricate colored pencil drawings.

 In 2015, Linda was diagnosed with Leukemia. As time progressed, her health began to decline. Later contributing to her passing.

Linda was predeceased by both parents - Marjorie and Harry, step-father “Skeeter”, sister Sheryl, and brothers - Dale and Jim. Along with her granddaughter Caris who passed at 4.5 months old. She is survived by her husband - Kenneth Sly of New Providence, her children - Mike Inman, Nicole Lindsey of Eldora, Tiffany Gardner (Joshua) of New Providence, Tony (Michelle) Sly of Jesup, and Lisa (Jason) Kopp of Kazakhstan. 14 grandchildren - Zoe (Coby) Tomlinson, Hudson Kopp, Kaden Kopp, Taylor Inman, Tayeshun Sly, Merak Sly, Cooper Gardner, Madden Sly, Dekon Gardner, Emmitt Lindsey, Toryn Sly, Nora Lindsey, Driver Gardner, and Nova Gardner. And 1 great grandchild - Lilian Tomlinson.

Visitation will be held at Abels Funeral and Cremation Service on Monday February 6th at 5:00-7:00 p.m.