Linda L. Kepley, 82, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Thursday, March 21, 2024, at home. She was born on May 24, 1941, in Mount Carmel, the daughter of Edward and Mary (Brunner) Walter. She married Malvin Kepley on April 12, 1981, and they enjoyed forty-two years of marriage until his passing on January 8, 2024.
Linda devoted herself to her long teaching career. She started at St. Mary’s School in the early 1970’s, and then to District 348 until her retirement. After retiring from full time teaching, Linda taught classes at Wabash Valley College. It was her many years teaching grade school for the district that has had the most impact on area residents. She truly loved her students and wanted each one to thrive and succeed, not just in school but also into adulthood. She could see potential in many children, even if they didn’t see it in themselves. Mrs. Kepley led her students with strict rules and discipline, but also great love. She never forgot any of her students and kept up with their happenings through the years. Linda started a secret program called “Linda’s Kids”, starting with 1 student, and continuing for over 30 years with hundreds of children, making sure each child received a surprise delivery on Christmas Eve. In her spare time, she enjoyed creating with Stampen Up and loved to paint, she was very artistic. Linda was a member of Poseyville Christian Church Disciples of Christ where she enjoyed singing and playing the organ and piano. Linda’s bright smile and caring nature will be remembered forever by her family and countless friends.
Linda leaves behind her brother, Edward Walter and his wife, Beth Lorenzen of Edmonds WA; niece, Samantha Walter; nephew, Michael Walter and wife, Amy; great nieces and nephew, Allison, Kylie and Michael Walter; grandchildren, Ryan McGrane, Amber Shelton; a special family whom she loved, Jen, Chad, Zayn and Tenley Davis.
Linda was preceded in death by her parents, and beloved husband, Malvin.
Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Saturday, March 30, 2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.
Memorial Services will be 1:00 p.m., Saturday, March 30, 2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Rocky Wrye officiating. A Private Family Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery, where Linda and Malvin will be laid to rest.
In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made in Linda’s memory to Parkview Caring Closet, Ed Walter Little League Park or The Lunch Wagon. Envelopes will be at the funeral home or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.
Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Linda’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Kepley family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com
