Linda Barnes Leopold, 70, of Eolia, Mo., died Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2024, in Silex, Mo., surrounded by her loving children. Visitation will be Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, from 9 – 11 a.m. at Bibb-Veach Funeral Homes & Crematory in Bowling Green, Mo. The service will be officiated by Pastor Jason Hamilton at 11 a.m. A private graveside service will be held at Ashley Cemetery at a later date.

Linda was born on Dec. 30, 1953, to William (Bill) Gray and Dorothy (Shepherd) Gray in Louisiana, Mo. She lived in New Hartford most of her childhood life attending New Hartford School until the fourth grade when they consolidated with Bowling Green. There she continued her education until she graduated in 1971. Unto her was born three children, Jamie Barnes of Eolia, Mo., Lisa Mitchell (Darley) of Wentzville and Craig Barnes (Denise) of Eolia, Mo. She was blessed with six grandchildren, Noah, Caroline, Everly and Parker Barnes, Drew Blackwell and Jeremiah Mitchell. All survive. She is also survived by her sisters, Pat McCorkle and Gina Epperson and many nieces and nephews. Linda’s parents, brother, Joe Gray, sister Shelly Fongemie, brother C.W. Gray and sister-in-law Yolanda Gray, died earlier.

Linda was always working behind a cash register and met many people along the way. Her hobbies included canning vegetables from her garden, two-stepping, reading and cooking but most of all she loved spending time with her family. She was an avid supporter of Relay for Life and Wreaths Across America.

Pallbearers are Todd Blackwell, Eddie Ochs, Tom Craig, Mike Craig, Cary Gray and Chris Gray.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Relay for Life or Pike County Hospice.

Online condolences may be left at www.bibbveach. com.