Published on December 22, 2025 2:34 pm
Last Updated on December 22, 2025 2:34 pm
Linda Carole Davidson, age 85, of Sailor Springs, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 9:58 pm, Thursday, December 18, 2025, at her home in Sailor Springs, Illinois.
Linda was born on November 22, 1940, in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, the daughter of Lloyd Russell and Erma Frances (Batchlor) Harris. She married Franklin Leon Davidson on June 4, 1959, in Sharpsburg, North Carolina, and they shared 50 years together before he preceded her in death on August 25, 2009.
In her earlier years, Linda found joy as a dog groomer in North Carolina, where her affection for animals shone through. Her career took a significant turn when she obtained her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credentials, leading her to serve for many years at the Clay County Health Department. There, Linda dedicated herself to helping others in their times of need, embodying the spirit of compassion and care that defined her character.
A true lover of travel, Linda’s adventures took her to various remarkable destinations, including the sandy beaches of Florida, the stunning landscapes of the Grand Canyon, and the vibrant cities of Las Vegas and Phoenix. Each journey added to her tapestry of life experiences and enriched her understanding of the world around her.
In her later years, while residing in Sailor Springs, Linda became a founding member of the Historical Foundation of Sailor Springs. Her commitment to preserving local history was evident as she diligently conducted research and shared her findings through a weekly article for the Clay County Republican. Her writings were not just informative; they reflected her deep appreciation for the community and its heritage.
Linda was also a long-time member of the Sailor Springs Christian Church, where she actively participated in various church functions. Her unwavering faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she cherished the opportunity to share the message of Christ with others, spreading kindness and love to all who crossed her path.
Above all, Linda’s greatest pride and joy lay in her family and friends. Her kindness and caring nature endeared her to many, and she always found time to visit and connect with those she loved. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Linda is survived by a daughter-in-law: Misty Davidson of Sailor Springs; 4 grandchildren: Joe (Paige) Klingler of Clay City, Jake Klinger of Florida, Brett Harley Davidson of St. Charles, Missouri, Ciara Lynn Davidson of Terre Haute, Indiana; step-granddaughter: Allison Renee Henderson of Sailor Springs; 2 step-grandsons: Ayden Davidson and Arron Davidson both of Terre Haute, Indiana; 2 great-grandchildren: Grady and Myles Klinger of Clay City; 3 step great-grandchildren: Gavyn, Aaron, and Avery Henderson of Sailor Springs; 3 brothers: Tom (Gayle) Harris of Sailor Springs, Fred (Peggy) Harris of Sailor Springs, Wayne Harris of Sailor Springs; sister-in-law: Trudy Harris of Alabama; nieces and nephews: Scott Harris, Joshua Harris, Ryan Harris, Laura Gusick, Sara Gusick, Jeff Gusick, Shaun Harris, Shana Harris.
In addition to her husband, Linda was also preceded in death by her parents; a daughter: Buffie Suzanne Davidson; a son: Paul Russell Davidson; brother: George Michael (Mick) Harris; nephew: John Gusick.
Memorial services to celebrate Linda’s life will be held at 12:00 pm, Friday, January 2, 2026, at the Sailor Springs Christian Church with Gene Birch and Tim Schnautz officiating. Burial will follow at the Dillman Cemetery, Sailor Springs. A visitation will be held on Friday at the church from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Linda’s memory to the Sailor Springs Christian Church, or Clay County Animal Shelter with envelopes available at the church.
The McGriff Funeral Home in Louisville is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements. To sign the guestbook online or to share a memory or story of Linda, please visit www.mcgriffandtriplettfh.com.