Obituary of Linda Jane Williams

A beacon of love, kindness, generosity, integrity, and bottomless compassion passed from this earth to be in the arms of her Savior,
Jesus Christ on August 24, 2023. Linda was born September 24, 1939 in DeGraff, Ohio to parents Ray and Esta Rolfe. When Linda was eight Esta loaded Linda and her two brothers, Don and Phil, into their 1935 Chevrolet and traveled 2,200 miles to Wilbur, Washington where Ray had gone to find work. This was quite a daring adventure for Esta, who had never driven more than 30 miles from her home. Linda and the family remained in Wilbur until she graduated from Wilbur High School as valedictorian of the Class of 1957. She remained friends with many of her classmates, and class reunions were a special time she looked forward to.

Linda married and began what became her lifelong passion - her three children, nine grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. “Gran,” as she later was known, was something of a family legend for her generosity. Gran’s gift boxes overflowed with treasures and were a part of every child’s birthday, major holiday, and some not so major.

The Christmas Bakeathon was a two day annual event when Linda and three of her granddaughters would gather to bake, frost, and decorate many dozens Christmas cookies that were then shared with the whole family. Linda found absolute delight and joy in her family, and they were the center of her life.

When the children grew older, Linda returned to school and completed her Bachelor’s degree at Pacific Lutheran University, and later
graduated from the University of Washington with a Master’s degree in Social Work. She then began her life’s second passion, providing psychotherapy. She worked at Good Samaritan Mental Health Center, providing psychotherapy to adults and couples. Linda remarried in 1980 to Don Robertson, a coworker and colleague. In 2003, Linda left Good Samaritan to begin a private psychotherapy practice specializing in grief work. With skill and compassion, she guided many through the pain of losing those dear to them. Linda loved her work and retired only when her health was failing.

Linda enjoyed many close and lifelong relationships with colleagues while working at Good Samaritan. It was there that the “Women’s Group” formed, and they shared many joys as well as sorrows throughout the years. Linda’s relationships were marked by her integrity, loyalty, and deep caring for others.

Linda was a member of Celebration Lutheran Church in Puyallup and was a regular attendee until her health prevented attendance. Her faith was the foundation of her life and guided her in all that she did.

Linda is survived by her husband of 43 years, Don Robertson, son Mark, son Michael (Megan), daughter Melissa Smith (Dwayne), nine
grandchildren, and two great grandchildren, as well as two brothers Don Rolfe (Jan) and Phil Rolfe (Jan), many nieces and nephews, and
many close friends.

Arrangements for cremation are through Curnow’s Funeral Home, Sumner. A family graveside service will take place in Wilbur, Washington.

Linda loved trees and remembrances can be made through the Arbor Foundation or a preferred charity.