Obituary of Linda Sue Thomas Penland

Linda Sue Thomas Penland, 64, of Bryson City passed away Thursday, December 22, 2011 following a period of declining health. Linda was born June 11, 1947. She was the devoted and loving daughter of John Gilbert and Moquetta Monteith Thomas. She was a proud member of the graduating class of 1965 at Swain County High School and attended Western Carolina University. She was employed by Swain County Hospital as a medical record transcriptionist and later by West Care in Sylva as a Quality Management Specialist. She served the community in these ways for 27 years. She enjoyed reading, traveling, and chatting with friends and family. She was a strong Christian and a firm believer in Jesus Christ which she cultivated as a member of the First Baptist Church of Bryson City. There was nothing she would not do for those she loved. She is survived by her daughter, Shawna McRae Penland of Bryson City; lifelong friend and confidante, Virginia Welch Gribble of Sylva; sister and brother in law, Theresa Thomas and Ralph Ownby of Hendersonville, TN; nephew, Christopher Michael Ownby and wife Kristina Short Ownby of White House, TN; niece, Michelle Ownby Reed and husband. She is also survived by several close cousins and extended family members who loved her dearly. She was the proud "Mimi" to her granddog, Alabama Thomas Penland. Helen Keller said, "Keep your face in the sunshine and you cannot see the shadow." This quote sums up Linda's life beautifully. She was a positive person and touched many lives. She sacrificed herself to provide for those she loved. There has never been a more dedicated mother to walk the face of the earth. A celebration of Linda's life will be held at the First Baptist Church of Bryson City on Monday, December 26, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service. Crisp Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.