Linda Lee Wheaton

With heavy hearts and profound gratitude, we announce the passing of our beloved Linda Lee Wheaton, who left this world peacefully on January 28, 2026, at the age of 78. Born in the serene landscapes of Twin Falls, Idaho, Linda embraced life with warmth and grace from the very start. She was the cherished daughter of Clifford Curtis Ross and Rose Anna Miller, who welcomed her into the world, nurturing her spirit and instilling within her the values she would carry throughout her life.

In 1980, Linda found her forever home in Independence, Kansas, where she built a life rich with love, laughter, and hard work. Her career at Standard Motors as a dedicated processing department employee spanned an admirable 33 years, showcasing her unwavering commitment to her role and her coworkers. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Linda flourished in the role of mother, raising three remarkable children: Tina, Gary, and Tanya. Each child a testament to her nurturing spirit, they grew to become wonderful reflections of her love.

Linda was more than a mother; she was a vibrant presence in the lives of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In her quiet moments, she found joy in the simple pleasures of life-creating beautiful works of art alongside her grandchildren, tending to her cherished garden, and deepening her faith as a devoted Christian. Her heart resonated with the gentle words of Pastor Murray, whose sermons offered her solace and strength.

Linda's legacy is a tapestry of love interwoven with cherished memories. She is preceded in death by her beloved parents and her dear brother, Danny Ross. Yet her spirit lives on, cradled in the hearts of her surviving family: her brother, Johnny Ross of Claremore, Oklahoma; her daughters, Tanya King of Liberty, Kansas, and Tina Bryer of Dearing, Kansas; her son, Gary King of Independence, Kansas; and her adored grandchildren, Noah VanBuren, Savana (King) Debo, Melinda King, Shyanna Bryer, and Courtney King, along with 14 great-grandchildren who will forever carry her love forward.

Family and friends are invited to join us for a graveside service on February 12, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the Harrisonville Cemetery in Tyro, Kansas, where we will gather to honor Linda's life and the immeasurable love she shared. As we reflect on the life of Linda Lee Wheaton, let us carry forward her legacy of love, compassion, creativity, and kindness. Though she may have departed from this earthly realm, her spirit will forever light the paths we walk and the lives we touch.

Linda is preceded in death by her parents Clifford Curtis Ross, Rose Anna Miller, and her brother Danny Ross of Oswego, Kansas.

To honor Linda’s lifelong love of animals, the family invites donations to be made to the Independence A.W.O.L Humane Society.