1946-2026
Linda Lee Richey, 80, daughter of Leland Eugene and Marjory Bess (McLaughlin) Gilmore, was born Jan. 27, 1946, in Des Moines. She passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Saturday, July 4, 2026, at Unity Point-Iowa Methodist Medical Center, Des Moines.
Linda grew up in Linden, where she learned the value of hard work at an early age. As a young girl, she walked beans, babysat and helped at Gilmore’s Garage, the family business.
On Sept. 3, 1966, Linda married the love of her life, William “Bill” Richey. Together, they built a life centered on love, family and faith, sharing many wonderful years together.
Throughout her life, Linda was known for her strong work ethic and friendly smile. She worked at Look Magazine, Farm Bureau, Teale Insurance, the Panora-Linden Schools, Casey’s, Panora Oil, Jubilee and Ben Franklin. No matter where she worked, Linda formed lasting friendships and was admired for her kindness, dependability and willingness to help others.
More than anything, Linda cherished her family. She found her greatest joy in spending time with those she loved, celebrating holidays, attending family gatherings and making memories with her children and grandchildren. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend whose gentle spirit and caring heart touched countless lives.
Linda grew up in the Linden Methodist Church and then later became a member of the Panora Methodist Church, where she taught Sunday School, Bible School and was a longtime member of UMW. She was a Girl Scout and Cub Scout leader. She enjoyed flowers in her yard, family vacations, going to Iowa Hawkeye football and basketball games, helping her children and grandchildren with band and their sporting events, going to their ball games and concerts.
Linda is survived by her husband, Bill Richey; her children, Bryan Richey; Jennifer (Tim) Hochstetler; and Kevin (Julie) Richey; her cherished grandchildren, Levi, Madelyn, and Laicey Richey; Spencer, Meridith and Sarah Hochstetler; Olivia and Grace Richey; and Samuel (Natalie), Nicholas, and Christopher Compiano; her great-granddaughter, Mia Compiano; her siblings, Lee (Carol) Gilmore and Carolyn Van Pelt; and many extended family and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Kathy Dever; along with other cherished family members who welcomed her home.
Funeral Services will be 10:30 a.m., Saturday, July 11, at the Panora United Methodist Church, Panora. Burial will be in West Linn Cemetery, near Linden. Visitation will be Friday, July 10, from 5-7 p.m. at the Twigg Funeral Home in Panora.
Memorials may be left to the Panora United Methodist Church or Tori’s Angels.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has offered love, prayers and support during this difficult time.
Though she will be deeply missed, Linda’s love and the many lives she touched will never be forgotten.