Linda Cheatum

Cheatum, Linda Mae (Woody) – Linda passed away peacefully at home on February 13, 2017.

Linda was born in Anthony, KS on June 7, 1934, to parents William and Ethel Woody.  She moved to Wichita, KS with her husband, Gary Bruce Cheatum in 1952, then moved to Winter Park, FL,  in 1968 where they continued to raise their three children.  Linda graduated with the first class of the University of Central Florida with honors.  She taught in alternative education for two years with troubled teens, became a curriculum writer and specialist and an elementary school counselor for 19 years.

Retiring after 25 years of service with Orange County Schools. She was one of the first of six elementary guidance counselors in the state of Florida.  Linda and her husband retired and moved to Ocala, FL in 2000 and joined First United Methodist Church.  She and her husband belonged to the South Florida Winnies for several years enjoying traveling, campouts and club meetings.

Linda enjoyed Sudoko, reading, needlework and her family and church.  She was an active member of the United Methodist Women’s Group where she was very involved in their activities.  She provided joy and love to her family and all those she met along the way.

Linda was preceded in death by the loss of her son, Gregory Bruce Cheatum and her Granddaughter, Jennifer Read, both parents and her brother, Bill Woody.

Linda is survived by her husband, Bruce Cheatum and two daughters, Gwen (Scott) Young and Katie (Kelvin) Brents, brother Tom (Janet) Woody and grandchildren – Ryan, Hannah, Jeremiah and Zac as well as many nieces and nephews and great-grandchildren.

Services will be held Friday, February 17th, 2017 at 11:00 am at First United Methodist Church, Ocala, FL, with a reception following, hosted by family to celebrate the life of Linda.

Memorial contributions may be sent for “United Methodist Children’s Home” to First United Methodist Church, 1126 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL 34470.