Linda Sue Shreve, 52, of Morgantown, earned her angel wings and flew home on March 4, 2020, while holding on to the hand of her loving son. Born
Aug. 20, 1967, in Oakland, Md., Linda dedicated her life to be of service to others, in spite of the numerous obstacles life presented to her.
Linda was an overcomer and will be forever remembered for her grit, grace, determination, perseverance and strength. Above all, Linda will be remembered for her unshaken compassion, her unfailing empathy and her unwavering love.
At the age of seven, Linda was diagnosed with childhood cancer. After years of fighting her way through chemotherapy, radiation and multiple surgeries — and in the loving arms of her daddy — Linda finally beat her cancer; however, she would be left without the use of her legs. Rather than allowing this obstacle to limit her, Linda developed an unwavering resolve to live every moment of her life to the fullest and to never give up on her dreams — always with a beautiful smile on her face.
Linda was determined to use her own personal experience as a catalyst for bettering the lives of those around her. Graduating from Fairmont State University with a bachelor’s in psychology, she then earned her master’s in rehabilitation counseling from West Virginia University. Shortly thereafter, Linda began working as a Clinical Therapist in Day Hospital at Chestnut Ridge Center, running groups for those struggling with chronic mental illness and addiction.
With the desire to help even more people, Linda also began working part-time in the evenings, providing crisis management services, as well as grief and bereavement counseling. In 2013, after 13 years with Chestnut Ridge, Linda made her lifelong dream a reality; opening her own private psychotherapy practice, which she named Lotus Place, ultimately specializing in marriage counseling. Linda loved her practice and was devoted to her clients. With Linda’s love and her years of practice, she bettered the lives of thousands of individuals. She will be sorely missed.
Linda’s greatest joy in life was her children and her puppy. In making the world a better place for others, Linda also made sure to give her children the best life possible, imparting enough love to last more than a lifetime. She supported all their endeavors and always made time to listen and provide them with guidance. Linda loved taking vacations to the beach and was happiest when looking out at the ocean. Linda especially loved spending hours playing with her puppy and enjoyed taking photos of him to share with her friends. Linda also loved cooking, baking and trying new recipes with her close friends.
Awaiting Linda’s arrival home was her daddy, Ervin Franklin Shreve, as well as her aunt, Wilma Jane Friend, who Linda looked to as a mother. The most special reunion of all was when Linda was once again able to embrace her beloved daughter, Brittney Nicole Waters. Linda’s heart had been broken when these souls became her angels, however, her heart is now surely again whole.
Anxiously waiting to wrap his arms around his mommy once more, is Linda’s adoring son, Brandon Anthony Franklin Waters, of Morgantown. Linda and Brandon shared an indescribable bond with one another — they were truly soul mates. The love they shared was vast beyond measure and will continue to last long after the sun stops rising. Waiting with Brandon — tail wagging and kisses ready — is Linda’s loving puppy, Bentley Reagan James.
Also eager to see Linda again someday are her “big brother,” Tom Murray, and wife, Daisy, of Oakland, Md.; special uncle, Sam Shreve, of Stoughton, Wis.; best friends: Ashleigh Ochs, of Pittsburgh; Peggy Gyimesi, of Lost Creek; Tonya Wood, of Fairmont; and Brenda Teets, of Arthurdale; as well as a very special friend, Allison Morin, of Morgantown.
Linda’s friends quickly became her family and were always present to lend a helping hand or to offer a laugh. Linda’s son would like to express his heartfelt appreciation for the outpouring of love and support from family and friends, as well as his sincere gratitude to the many doctors, nurses, and medical professionals who allowed him the privilege to spend a little more time with his mom.
Many thanks to Dr. Kendra Unger, MD; Dr. Robert Santrock, MD; and Dr. Ferenc Gyimesi, MD; all of whom worked tirelessly in Linda’s care and recovery.
Very special thanks to Brandon’s WVU Emergency Medicine family, who allowed him the privilege of holding his mom’s hand as she gained her angel wings and to say “I love you” one more time. May Linda’s life of love, empathy and compassion forever be an inspiration to others, and serve as a reminder that no obstacle is too big to overcome in the pursuit of your dreams.
In lieu of flowers, contributions suggested to the family.
Private memorial services in celebration of Linda’s life will be held at Bartlett Funeral Home, 202 McGraw Ave. Grafton, for her close friends and family.
Condolences:
bartlettfuneralhomewv.com
