Linda Ruth Prior

Linda Ruth Prior, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, January 22, 2025. 

Linda was born in Vandalia, MO on July 6, 1951, the daughter of H.R. and Ruth (Dowell) Caldwell, Jr., she filled her years with laughter, love, and a deep commitment to her family and community.

A visitation celebrating Linda's life will take place at Waters Funeral Home in Vandalia, MO, on Saturday, February 1, 2025, starting at 10:00 AM, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 AM. Bro. Jerry Ostrom officiating. Inurnment will follow the service in the New Harmony Cemetery in rural Curryville. 

A proud graduate of Van-Far High School, class of 1969, Linda entered a life of service that began with her role working at the Curryville Post Office and later retiring as Postmaster. Her career was just a part of her dedication to connecting with others. Linda was a caring and loving individual, known for her keen sense of humor that brightened the lives of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Linda's pride and joy was her family. She cherished every moment spent with her husband, Tom Prior of the home. Her love extended to her daughter Brandy Wojciuch and husband David, of Houston, Texas, and to her stepsons: Billy Prior and wife Donna of Ashley, MO; Mark Prior of Bowling Green, MO; and Jamie Prior (Charla) of Bowling Green, MO. Linda is also remembered fondly by her siblings, Michael Caldwell and wife Tona of Rush Hill, MO; Ellen Orf of Bowling Green, MO; and Marshall Caldwell and wife Amy of Jonesburg, MO.

As a grandmother, she delighted in the company of her grandchildren, Alison, Luke, Kileigh, and Colin showering them with affection and wisdom. Additionally, Linda embraced the role of great-grandmother, creating new memories with her great-grandchildren Zuri and Kobe, filling her heart with immense joy.

Linda is preceded in death by her parents, H.R. and Ruth (Dowell) Caldwell, Jr.

Linda was a dedicated member of the Farber Baptist Church, where she served both as a Sunday School Teacher and as the Church Secretary. Her faith was a guiding light in her life, illuminating her path as she volunteered at the Louisiana Food Pantry, always ensuring that those in need were cared for.

Among her numerous passions, Linda found joy in bowling, gardening, and quilting. Her love for nurturing the world around her was evident as she tended to her garden and eagerly fed the birds that frequented her yard, with a special affection for her beloved hummingbirds.

Linda's spirit will continue to thrive in the hearts of all who loved her, and she will forever be remembered as a beacon of love in her family and community.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Louisiana Food Pantry, in care of the Waters Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be made to the family and video tribute viewed on Linda's memorial page at www.watersfuneral.com.