Linda Powell

Linda Kay Powell, 67, died peacefully at home in Lawrence, Kansas on Monday, July 5, 2021, after living with ALS for the past three years.

Linda was born on April 14, 1954 in Wichita, Ks, the daughter of Helen R. and James F. Powell. She graduated from Wichita Heights High School in 1972 and then went on to attend the University of Kansas graduating with a BA degree in 1976.

After graduating from KU, Linda returned to Wichita and was manager of the Looking Glass Restaurant. Within a few years, along with other business partners, Linda had opened the Marple Theater, which featured foreign and classic films, live entertainment, and food & drink. Unfortunately, it was an idea too far ahead of the revitalization of the Old Town district in Wichita. In the early 80s Linda moved to Kansas City where she was Director of Broadcast for the Talent Plus talent agency. She was later the general manager for the American Heartland Theater in Kansas City, Missouri.

In 1994 Linda met the love of her life and moved to Lawrence, Kansas once again. The last years of her working life were spent as an Associate Analyst for the Federal Student Aid Information Center employed by Vangent and General Dynamics IT.

Linda is survived by her partner/spouse of 27 years, Margaret Holdeman, and her Emotional Support Miniature Schnauzer, Cooper. She is also survived by her brother Rick Powell (Genelle), niece Erin Petersen (Jake), niece Lara Sayler (Andrew), great nephews and nieces Eli, Grace, Caroline, James, and Isaac, all of whom she loved dearly. In addition, she is survived by her Best Friend for over 40 years, Kevin Mitchael (Christian Cesari) and her surrogate family Anne Hyde and children Iris, Auggie, and Greta.

Linda was cherished by a wide circle of friends; she was loved by all for her warm heart, wit, creativity, positive outlook, intelligent conversation, curiosity, playfulness, compassion and life insights.

There will be a Celebration of Life yet to be scheduled in late August or September.

Memorials may be made to the ALS Association Mid-America Chapter in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, P.O. Box 1260, Lawrence, Kansas 66044.

Online condolences made at rumsey-yost.com