Linda Ann (Cook) Markham

Linda Ann (Cook) Markham 1948-2016 Linda Ann (Cook) Markham, 68 went to be with the Lord on Aug. 18, 2016, under the care of Kindred Rehabilitation/Hospice Center Newark, Ohio. She battled Alzheimer’s for more than 5 years and fought it to the bitter end. Linda was born on June 28, 1948, in Greencastle, Ind. to Clarence Dale & Vera Belle (Rich) Cook- Johnson. She is survived by her husband of 34 yrs., John Markham; son, Jason (Jodi) Williams; sisters, Paula (Cook) Belman and Teresa Cook; brother, Brian Cook; niece, Danielle Belman; nephew, Kyle (Kelley) Belman; and three grandchildren; David Nirode, Andy Nirode & Olivia Williams. Linda is also survived by Robert Johnson, Belle’s second husband, who was a very important part of the family and currently resides in Arizona. A graduate of Whetstone High School in Columbus, Ohio, Linda “Cookie” was an accomplished violinist and artist. Upon graduating from high school, she attended Bowling Green State University where she majored in Fine Arts. In 1974, Linda and Keith Williams welcomed the birth of Jason, who had life threatening health problems. The proud parents embarked on a journey that no parent would want. She and her son had a bond that carried her thru life. Family was extremely important and the support of her siblings was critical during the difficult times. She never gave up and always used her faith to guide her. “NO” was not in her vocabulary.. In April of 1982, Linda and John Markham married and would remain so for the next 34 yrs. “Johnnie” and Linda shared many wonderful times together and most family vacations involved a golfing destination or a beach. She loved the ocean and being with her “two boys” - Johnnie and Jason. Her love of animals was clearly evident at an early age. Feeding horses, cats, dogs and birds were a daily chore around the Markham house. Linda’s love of music carried her thru this terrible disease and she responded to Elvis, Toccata, Gospel and her favorite group, Earth, Wind & Fire. She had an amazing sense of style and Interior Design which was a passion of hers for many years. While living in Glouster, Ohio, she tried her hand at Southwestern arts and crafts where her creative style could radiate. The ideal spot for Linda would be in Sedona, Az., painting with her dear friend Judith Durr, an accomplished still life Native American artist. The family would like to thank the staff at Kindred Rehabilitation Center where she resided for the past 10 months. Hospice of Kindred was truly a blessing during a very difficult time for both John, Jason and the family. Linda’s soul and charisma was infectious and the nursing staff would talk about her dancing in the halls and they couldn’t help but join. She was such a welcoming and energetic lady. The disease may have taken her, but her spirit will live on forever. God Bless!

Linda Ann (Cook) Markham

June 28, 1948 - August 18, 2016