Linda Marie Donnelly

Linda Marie Donnelly (Koshure) Linda Marie Donnelly, a beloved sister, aunt and great-aunt, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2026, in Edmonton, with her sisters by her side. Linda was born on May 1st, 1946, the first of four girls. She spent her life pursuing knowledge; creating art, writing and illustrating along with many eclectic interests. She had a deep connection to the world around her. Her childhood was filled with good times at her grandparent’s farm and inventing fun things for her younger siblings to do, always with an obvious talent for creativity. She shared her chemistry set, rocks and minerals, her art work and even the stories she started to write when she was 13. She made treasure hunts (including detailed maps) and sketched Royalty from Medievel times. It was obvious to all that she had a rich imagination. Linda’s academic journey was marked by her passion for learning. She graduated from Ross Shepherd High School before attending both U of A and Grant MacEwan college and earning her Masters in Honours English, as well as a PHD in Comparative Literature. She spent six months in Barcelona and took many art courses after her return. Throughout her life, Linda continued to study a wide array of subjects, including Astrology, Languages, Art and Egyptology-fields in which she excelled with remarkable proficiency. A gifted artist and published illustrator, Linda expressed herself through her creative talents. Her love for storytelling extended into her writing endeavours as well. Various career choices included her working as a typesetter; Librarian in Big Valley School; teaching ESL to new Canadians in Kamloops; teaching English Lit at Grant MacEwan, editing others’ writing and then retirement to pursue writing fiction. She loved her neighbourhood of Old Strathcona- she so enjoyed the block parties. Drive Happiness allowed her to get around and she forged some great friendships there. Lunches with old school friends and High School reunions were greatly anticipated events. She found inspiration in the beauty of nature and cherished the tranquility of the outdoors. Whether listening to and observing birds and their habits or just soaking it all up, Linda found joy and solace in Nature. An avid reader with a discerning taste for good literature, she was passionate about books that challenged and inspired her. She also enjoyed listening to Edmonton Oiler hockey games on the radio and trying her luck with lottery tickets-simple pleasures that brought her happiness. Linda is survived by her three sisters…Valerie (Atlee) of Kamloops; Sandy of Calgary and Janice (Louis) from Big Valley. She was a cherished aunt to David (Heather); Atlee (Angela); Angie; Chelsea, Braden (Amber), Breanne (Cody), Jared (Kori), as well a loving great-aunt to Ben, Kaitlin (Brody), Chloe, Tealynd, Eliza, Hayden, Callie, Linden and Rhodes. She was predeceased by her parents Victor (1987) and Hazel (2015) Linda’s legacy is one of intellectual curiosity, artistic expression and simple yet profound moments. We will miss her but her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. An intimate Celebration of Linda’s life will be held on July 18th, 2026, from 3-5 pm at the Hermus Family Farm - 35170 Range Road 20-3, Big Valley, Alberta. RSVP to jehermus@gmail.com if you plan on attending. Refreshments and a light meal will be served.

Linda Marie Donnelly

May 1, 1946 - February 16, 2026