Linda L (Stroup) Smith

Linda Lou (Stroup) Smith, known to most as “Gram” or “Gammie”, of Landisburg, passed away on February 6, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born at home on August 29, 1947 to the late LeRoy S. and Pauline M. (Heller) Stroup of Sugar Run, Linda is survived by her two children: Kelly S. Newlin (Jeff) of Millerstown and Michael R. Smith (Kim) of Ickesburg; four grandchildren: Zachary Newlin (Samantha) of Millerstown, Alyson Thebes (Cody) of New Bloomfield, Lance Newlin (Allison) and Dakota Smith (Ashton) both of Ickesburg; great grandchildren: Caleb, Makalyn, Hadlee, Cadence, Kyrsten, Jaxtyn, Bridger, Carsyn, and another great bundle of joy due in June; three siblings: Robert L. Stroup and Phyllis A. Sheaffer, both of Millerstown, and Susan K. Wilson of Elliottsburg; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Linda is preceded in death by the love of her life, and husband of 57 years, Terrance “Terry” R. Smith, who passed away in 2023; a sister Carole L. Hostler, formerly of Millerstown; and an infant brother Donald G. Stroup.

Linda graduated from Greenwood Joint High School with the Class of 1965 where she made lifelong friends; including Grace Milligan and Inky Albright. As a child, she attended St. Samuel’s Lutheran Church in Newport with her family. She effortlessly and proudly raised her family and ran the household, supporting her children in all their activities and sporting events.

Linda was a part of many bowling leagues and also bowled in a co-ed league with her husband at Perry Lanes in New Bloomfield. She enjoyed tending to her flowers and watching the birds that visited her feeders. Linda treasured vacations with her family at the Outer Banks and trips to Bethany Beach with her husband. She also enjoyed peaceful drives through the valley, appreciating the beauty of nature and wildlife.

Linda enjoyed watching soap operas, ensuring she never missed an episode. During baseball season, you could always find her cheering on her beloved Philadelphia Phillies. She was known for her meticulous nature, always keeping things in their designated places. Linda's love for cooking and baking for her family was evident, and her kitchen at times was filled with the sounds of her Dutch heritage when things didn't go quite as planned. Her red velvet cake was a cherished treat at family gatherings. 

She was a supporter of her oldest grandson’s 11z Newlin Racing team, passed her love for the Outer Banks to her middle grandson, always had cookie dough ready for her youngest grandson's visits, and shared many heartfelt kitchen conversations with her granddaughter while doing the dishes. Her great-grandchildren brought her immense joy, and she embraced their youthful energy with open arms. She rarely said "no" to them, allowing them to explore and try new things, never complaining about the extra work as long as they were happy. 

Linda's love for her family was boundless and she always greeted them with a warm smile. Her love, warmth, and dedication to her family will be deeply missed. She leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories. A Celebration of Life for Linda will be held Sunday, March 9, 2025 at the Family Life Center in Newport, beginning at 3pm.

Arrangements entrusted to Nickel Lochstampfor Family Funeral Home, Inc., located in Loysville, PA.

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