Linda S. Caldwell

Linda Sue Caldwell, 77, of Mason City was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on Thursday, July 9, 2026. Her final breaths were peaceful as the One she faithfully trusted throughout her life embraced her and welcomed her home. A private graveside service will be held in the Memorial Park Cemetery in Fort Dodge. Memorials can be directed to the family of Linda Caldwell.

Linda was born on October 21, 1948, in Fort Dodge, Iowa and spent the last several years living in Mason City, Iowa. She was the youngest of three daughters, arriving 10 and 15 years after her older sisters. Being the baby of the family suited her well, and she embraced that role with confidence, curiosity, and just a little bit of mischief.

From the stories shared about her childhood, Linda was fearless and determined to experience life to the fullest. Whether it was sneaking off in her daddy's car, teaching her dogs impressive tricks, or racing around with her young niece in the car, she approached life with adventure. That adventurous spirit remained with her throughout her life. She loved Elvis, Neil Diamond, and could often be found enjoying her favorite television judge shows.

In July of 1972, Linda married Denny Caldwell and together they welcomed two daughters. Although the marriage eventually ended, her devotion to her daughters never wavered. She often said she wanted two ornery girls, and that wish was granted in more ways than she could have imagined. Her daughters became the center of her world, and loving, supporting, and cheering them on remained one of her life's greatest joys. She was a devoted mother who sacrificed willingly, loved unconditionally, and was always present when her girls needed her.

Linda's life was marked by sacrifice, unconditional love, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to her family. She was known by many names—Mom, Gammy or Gammie (depending on which grandchild you asked), and most recently, GG. Each title was one she treasured deeply.

She was fiercely independent and wonderfully stubborn. These qualities served her well throughout life's challenges. If something needed to be done, Linda preferred to do it herself. She enjoyed life's simple pleasures: a hot cup of coffee (and it had better stay hot), gathering with family for picnics filled with laughter and stories, volunteering at her church, and spending time with the people she loved most.

She fought battles that no one should ever have to endure, including stage IV small cell lung cancer, a disease she courageously battled and was blessed to have in remission for several years. Through every hardship, Linda met life with remarkable strength, determination, and an enduring faith that never left her.

Her greatest joy was her family. Linda loved her grandchildren more than words can adequately express. Nothing made her happier than watching them laugh together, grow into the people they were becoming, and simply enjoy being together. One recent conversation perfectly captured both her love and her sense of humor. When asked who she would take with her if there were ever a zombie apocalypse and she could only save three people, she quickly answered that she would grab two of her grandchildren and, of course, her son-in-law—whom she proudly referred to as her "favorite child"—and "get the hell out of here." She was fiercely loyal, wonderfully funny, and always able to make those around her laugh.

Linda also shared a special bond with her beloved dog, Dexter, whose companionship brought her immeasurable comfort, joy, and unconditional love through the years.

Above all else, Linda's faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of her life. She believed wholeheartedly that He would walk beside her through every trial, every joy, and every uncertainty. Her faith was not only something she believed but something she lived through her service to her church and the love she extended to others. He remained faithful to that promise until her final breath, when her faith became sight.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Edna and Glen, and her sisters, Marilyn and Josephine.

Those left with grateful hearts for having shared in her life include her daughters, Carrie Wagner (Paul) of Nora Springs, Iowa, and Robyn Caldwell of Mason City, Iowa; her cherished grandchildren Tymathie, Phillip, Christopher, Hannah, and Azekiel; and her precious great-granddaughter Malaysiah Sue, whom she was overjoyed to meet and who shares her middle name.

Linda leaves behind a legacy of fierce love, unwavering faith, resilience, laughter, and devotion to her family. She taught those who loved her what it means to persevere, to put family first, and to trust God through every season of life. Though she will be deeply missed, those who knew and loved her find comfort in knowing she is whole again, at peace, and forever home with her Savior.