Linda Savage

Linda, age 80, passed away peacefully at home March 5, 2024. She is survived by daughter, Marta Savage (husband, Jeff Vaughn) of Ormond Beach, Florida, son, Charles Savage of Denver, Colorado, grandsons, Charlie Savage (wife, Yue Xi) of Seattle, Washington, Michael Savage (Denzil Martin) of Washington, DC, and great granddaughter, Marianna, her sister, Shirley Harris of Maryville, TN., nephews and nieces. She was predeceased by her husband, Charles and daughter, Christine, parents Riley and Martha Jenkins and her brothers.

Linda was a caring, supportive, and loving wife, mother, sister, aunt, and friend. She was a woman of humble beginnings, yet was rich in so many ways that cannot be measured by material possessions. She was blessed with knowledge, wisdom, kindness, compassion, and love. As a college professor, she understood the importance of education and hard work. She always had a way of asking the tough questions or making you think beyond the surface. She naturally brought out the best in those around her and encouraged you to be the best version of yourself. Linda offered comfort without judgment and guidance without pretense.

She graduated from Maryville High and went on to seek higher education from various colleges. She obtained her undergraduate and graduate degrees from University of Tennessee and her PhD from the University of Florida. Linda taught business and auditing at Queens College and St. Johns University in Queens, NY. From there, she became a college professor at the University of Central Florida for 25 + years. Education has always been important to her. Linda was a lifelong learner and enjoyed educating those around her in any topic from finance, football, cooking, bridge or just general life lessons.

Linda loved game day for the University of Tennessee. Weekends would find her dressed in her UT orange while cheering at the television. Throughout her life Linda was an avid golfer (had a hole-in one), voracious reader, and enjoyed regular games of bridge with friends and UNO and Rummikub with family. Linda was happiest when she was surrounded by loved ones.

Linda’s legacy extends far beyond her time with us. Her spirit lives on in the countless lives she’s touched. She taught us all what is really important in life - to love, support, care for, and be kind to others. Though she may no longer walk beside us, her memory will forever be etched in our hearts, guiding us, comforting us, and inspiring us. We are all better for having known her; the world won’t be the same without her.

Rest in peace, Linda. You will be deeply missed but your spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved you.

Celebration of Life will be March 23, 2024 from 3-5pm at 104 Dante Circle, Maryville, TN 37803. If you have a Linda story, we would love to hear it. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity or church.