Linda Spears McKinney

Linda Spears Hall McKinney, born on July 19, 1949, in Gaston County, NC, departed this life peacefully on October 25, 2025, at CaroMont Regional Medical Center in Belmont. Her passing was surrounded by the love and warmth of her family and friends, a testament to the relationships she cherished throughout her life.

Linda dedicated many years to her career as an administrative professional in the textile industry, where she was known for her strong work ethic and dedication. Outside of her professional life, Linda was a kind-hearted and passionate individual, always giving of herself to those around her. Her friendly demeanor and social nature shone brightest as she enjoyed connecting with family and friends, particularly through long conversations with her beloved sister, Frances Spears.

An avid lover of social media, Linda had a talent for making and taking pictures, which beautifully captured the moments that mattered most to her. She found joy in crossword puzzles and adorned herself with jewelry that reflected her vibrant personality. Linda also cherished the simple pleasures of life, like gathering for dinners with her group of ladies and indulging in the company of her beloved cats. Polka dots were more than a fashion choice for Linda; they were emblematic of her playful spirit.

Linda is survived by her devoted daughter, Tammy Smith (Greg), and her wonderful grandchildren, Mason Smith, and Devin White (Chad), who represented her proudest accomplishments and the joys of her heart. She also leaves behind her sister, Frances Spears, and sister-in-law, Mary Ann Spears, along with her cherished nephews, Jeff Hall and John Hall (Debra), Donnie Spears, and David Holcombe, nieces, Casey White, Sheila Diaz, Rebecca Neel, Stephanie Madden, Lynn Hartford and Carol Rickman. In addition, Linda enjoyed the company of her special friends, Starline Connor, and Darlene Eason, with whom she made lasting memories.

She will be dearly missed by all who knew her. Linda was predeceased by her parents, William and Kate McElwaine Spears, her husband, Ferroll "Bud" McKinney, and her siblings, Pat Hall, Donald Spears, Bud Spears, Jack Spears, and Steve Spears.

A visitation to honor Linda’s memory will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a memorial service starting at 2:00 PM, both at Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation, located at 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC. Honorary Pallbearers will be Greg Smith, Mason Smith, Devin White, Chad Bates, John Hall, Jeff Hall, and Nicholas Guffey.

Linda's vibrant spirit, generous heart, and loving nature will live on in the memories of all who knew and loved her.

The family would like to send a heart-felt thank you to Maranda Lindsey, Dr. Dustin Letts, Dr. Jay Hendler, Wesley Golding, N.P., Natalie Walz, N.P., Nursing and Support Staff, and CaroMont Regional Medical Center, Belmont.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in her honor to Heart Society of Gaston County, 1201 East Garrison Blvd., Gastonia, NC 28054

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family.

Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com