Linda Jean Patterson Billings, 73
June 22, 1952 – November 22, 2025
Linda Jean Patterson Billings, age 73, departed this earthly life on Saturday, November 22, 2025, surrounded by the comfort and love of her loved ones.
A gathering of family and friends will be held from 5 PM until 7 PM on Tuesday evening, November 25, 2025, at Marlow Church of Christ. Everyone is warmly invited to come fellowship together, share memories, and reflect on the life of a truly remarkable lady.
Born on July 22, 1952, in Denton, Texas, Mrs. Linda was the cherished daughter of the late Jim Patterson and Oneta Violet Dick Patterson. She was a proud graduate of Denton High School before continuing her education in Texas. She devoted her entire career to the financial service industry before retiring and embracing the quieter joys of life—moments filled with gratitude, purpose, and the people she loved most.
A Christian and a faithful member of Marlow Church of Christ, Mrs. Linda lived out her faith in the most genuine ways. She served as a Sunday school teacher, volunteered in the kitchen, and was always willing to lend a hand wherever she was needed. Church was not just a place she attended—it was a place she loved and poured her heart into. It was also where she met her devoted companion of many years, Mr. Buford Gray, who survives her. Their bond was one built on friendship, laughter, shared routines, and simple joys. Whether working in the yard, dancing with the man who brought joy to her days, or singing as he always enjoyed listening with a smile, their relationship was one of comfort, companionship, and steady love.
Mrs. Linda delighted in the small, meaningful traditions she kept with her family—especially her annual “happy birthday” voicemails, filled with her unmistakable voice and loving spirit. She truly enjoyed life, and she brought warmth, sincerity, and kindness into every space she entered.
Though her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, there is great comfort in knowing that she is now at rest, healed, and safely home in Heaven. Her legacy of love, faith, and gentle strength will continue to live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.
In addition to her companion, Mr. Buford, memories are continued to be cherished by three daughters, Tina Billings, Tammy Alexander (Jamie), and Shari Cox (Todd), one son, Jack Billings (Paula), two stepdaughters, Angie Smith (Eugene), and Jennifer McAll (Scott), one stepson, Chris Gray (Holly), three sisters, Lucille Harris, Sue Walters, and Marjorie Hamm, one brother, David Patterson, and eight grandchildren, along with a wide circle of extended family and friends.
She was also preceded in death by one sister, Carol Debault, and one brother, Richard Patterson.
Ripley Funeral Home invites you to share memories with Mrs. Linda’s family.
Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.
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Gathering of Family and Friends
Tuesday
November 25, 2025
5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Marlow Church of Christ
481 HWY 72
Walnut, MS 38683
