Linda Martha Fernandez Matthews

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our mother, Linda Matthews. Linda, 78 years old, died peacefully surrounded by her family on September 29, 2021, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Linda was a fierce matriarch who dedicated her life to her children, grandchildren, and friends. Born June 22, 1943, in Bronx, New York, she came to Radford, Virginia in 1962 to attend Radford College. After raising her children, Linda finished her education, graduating from Radford with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology.
Her determination to make a better life for her family was unmatched. Linda went on to have a very successful career as a Senior Vice President of Workforce Development for Goodwill Industries of the Valleys. In 2014, she received the “Expanding Opportunities” Award from The Virginia Community College System, a testament to her unwavering commitment to those she served. Linda retired from Goodwill in 2015.
The only titles Linda ever cared about were “Mom” and “Nana.” Her greatest joy in life was spending time with her children, Kim (Bruce) – Jacksonville, Florida and Kevin (Amy) – Roanoke, Virginia, and her grandchildren, Hannah and Gabby (Jacksonville, Florida) and Emma and Gray (Roanoke Virginia). While she had four biological grandchildren, Linda was “Nana” to so many others. She embraced that role like no other. While her small and mighty family is lost without their fearless leader, the memories of her time on earth will sustain us.
In retirement, Linda reconnected with so many dear friends. She enjoyed playing cards and was happiest with a porch full of people and red wine. Linda was strong-willed and proud. Her indomitable spirit kept her pushing through her health issues with so much dignity. The last few years of her life were rich and happy. To her most special friends (you know who you are), thank you for taking such good care of her.
It was Linda’s wish that her family and friends gather in celebration upon her passing. Plans for the celebration will be announced in the near future.
The Matthews/Allerton family is in the care of Mullins Funeral Home & Crematory in Radford, Virginia. www.mullinsfuneralhome.com