Linda Marie Smela

Linda Marie Smela (Woodring) 73, passed away on August 4, 2023, in her hometown. She was born on

December 11, 1949, in Muskegon, Michigan, to Claude and Madeline Woodring.

Linda had a vibrant and loving personality. She grew up in a close-knit neighborhood where neighbors

knew each other's families and their children. Linda cherished her childhood memories of playing

outside until dark with her best friends. After graduating, Linda briefly moved to Arizona with Larry's

father, however, she ultimately returned home, and her son Larry Jr. was born. Linda later met Doug's

father when she had moved to Round Lake, IL, but once again, she found her way back home. Years later

she met Michael Smela and decided to move to New York City. Even though they loved NYC she knew it

was time to bring Michael with her to join our family, as her heart always led her back to her hometown.

Linda was a devoted caregiver, dedicating her career to providing individual care to the elderly and

working in group homes. Her nurturing nature and compassionate spirit touched the lives of many.

In her free time she enjoyed so many things, from taking fall color tours up north towards Traverse City

with her sisters, to crafting and crocheting baby blankets and other items.

Linda will be deeply missed by her surviving family members, including her son Larry Mims Jr., brothers

David and Danny Woodring, sisters Janet Woodring, Barbie (Mitch) Iversen, and Kay (Doug) Cowles and

grandchildren Marla and Mercy (Kaela) and Alex, Jacob and Noah (Tena) . She also leaves behind

numerous nieces, nephews, and great nieces and great nephews who were like her own since her own

were so far away.

Linda was preceded in death by her husband Michael Smela, son Douglas Lund, grandson Ambrose

Sullivan (Larry Mims), parents Claude and Madeline Woodring, and sister-in-law Penny Woodring

(David) and her nephew TJ (Stefanie).

Linda Marie Smela was a remarkable individual who touched the lives of many through her caregiving

career, creative hobbies, and loving nature. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who

knew and loved her.

A Celebration of Life for Linda will be held at the Park Meadows Community Center on Sunday, August

27, 2023, between 2:30 -5:30 pm with a luncheon. This will be an occasion to honor Linda's life and

share cherished memories with her family.