Linda Butts

Linda (Oblinger) Butts peacefully passed away on February 18, 2026, in South Bend, IN, leaving behind a legacy of love, creativity, and boundless joy. Born on January 22, 1942, in Mishawaka, IN, to Elmer Oblinger and Viola Mae (Steed) Oblinger, Linda grew to be a beacon of light and a source of unwavering support for all who knew her.

Linda graduated from Mishawaka High School  and not long afterwards, on June 27, 1959, she married her beloved husband, Leonard Leroy Butts, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in South Bend, IN. They shared a beautiful life together until Leonard's passing on June 6, 2007. Together, Linda and Leonard welcomed their daughters,Carla (Curtis) Hinton, Laura (Matt) Zigler and Angela Talcott-Benson, who would carry on the warmth and kindness of their mother.

Throughout her years, Linda built strong relationships in her community through her work as a waitress at various local restaurants. Her gentle demeanor and endearing smile made her a favorite among patrons and colleagues alike. She also found happiness in teaching children and youth at her Church. Linda had a knack for making everyone feel special, and her dedication to service was a testament to her caring nature.

Linda had a passion for the arts, a hobby that reflected the colorful tapestry of her soul. She found solace in painting, a craft that allowed her to express her vibrant inner world. Her love for crochet and sewing was more than a pastime; it was a way to share handmade memories with her loved ones. Family and friends were often adorned in her elaborate creations, each stitch a symbol of her love and thoughtfulness.

Music and dancing were sources of immense joy for Linda. She lived with a rhythm in her step and a song in her heart, spreading cheer wherever she went. More than anything, Linda loved spoiling her grandchildren, a true testament to her giving spirit. Whether it was a simple treat or a grand gesture, she knew just how to make her grandkids feel cherished.

Camping with family was among her cherished pastimes. The great outdoors was a backdrop for togetherness, storytelling, and the creation of lifelong memories. As a matriarch, Linda was the heartbeating center of every family gathering under the stars.

Her family, an extensive tapestry of love, included her daughters, Carla (Curtis) Hinton and Laura (Matt) Zigler; sons-in-law, Michael Benson and Thomas Zigler; the lighthearted laughter of her grandchildren, Lisa (Erick), Lauren, Lydia (Philip), Miranda, Thomas (Dana), Matthew (Jessica), Amberleigh (Josh), Patrick (Annalee), Derick (Vicki), and Kaylyn; 37 great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom basked in Linda's unwavering care and affection.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Mae, her loving husband Leonard, her adored daughter Angela, her sisters Iris Sider, Rita Starkweather, Ermajean Swartz, her brothers Dean, Joe, Ronald, Orville, and David Oblinger, and her sons-in-law John Talcott and Jeffrey Hinton, as well as her great-grandchildren,  Mia and Raiden. She leaves behind a vast landscape of memories that will continue to flourish in the hearts of her family for generations to come.

A time to visit with the family will be Wednesday, February 25, 2026, from 12-2 p.m. A service will immediately follow starting at 2 p.m. Pastor Wyatt Smith will officiate the service. All being held at Palmer Funeral Home – Bubb Chapel, 3910 N. Main St. Mishawaka, IN 46545.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.