Linda Ihstu MaKienda died suddenly on December 31, 2021, in Springfield, Missouri where she
resided since 2006. She was born (Linda Kincaid) November 12, 1950, in Ionia, Michigan. She
graduated from Mt. Morris High School and attended Baker College in Flint, Michigan.

She was a proud mother of four: Amy Rodriguez (Grand Blanc, MI), Bill Rodriguez
(Springfield, MO), Marty (Megan) Rodriguez (Atlanta, GA), Jennifer (David) Roberts (Lima,
OH); Grandmother of eight: Breanna (Matt) White, Kelsey Rodriguez, Liana Rodriguez, Makiah
Mosley, Akira Mosley, Amya Rodriguez, Haleigh Rodriguez, and Andrew Roberts; and greatgrandmother of two: Parker and Ethan White.

Linda was preceded in death by her mother, Dora (Sparks) Jahimiak, father, William Kincaid,
brothers, Gene and Joe Bailey, and Robert Kincaid, and sister, Vonda (Bailey) Morea, and
special aunt and uncle, Kizzie and Tuffy Lawrence.

She is survived by her children, grandchildren, sisters Imogene (Leon) Sutfin and Charlotte
(Dennis) Morrell, and brother William (Elzina) Kincaid Jr.

Linda’s love for people was often shown by her attentive nature to learn about and talk to
everyone she encountered, from her favorite convenience store employees, insurance agent, and
Pappy’s BBQ. It is not uncommon to receive a letter and handmade gift of acknowledgement and
thanks after a visit from Linda. She had a passion for music, art, writing, birdwatching, and her
pets. She loved to repurpose and had a gift for seeing an alternate use in everything she owned.
Her later days were spent remodeling and beautifying her prized home (alongside her son Bill)
which she purchased in 2019.

Amid illness and personal struggles, she continued to keep her Christian faith as her compass.
She gave to several charities and organizations including The Salvation Army, Boys and Girls
Club, and Children’s Miracle Network. Upon her death, she gave the gift of life by donating her
organs through Mid America Transplant.

Linda left behind a tremendous number of journals and creations under her name: Ihstu. She
loved to share her thoughts, opinions, and work with others.

There will be a celebration of Linda’s life scheduled later in her home state of Michigan. The
family asks that you provide condolences by giving Love to each other. Life can be lonely for
many, and especially those with mental illness. Please take a moment each day to follow Jesus
Christ’s command to love one another as He has loved us (John 15:12).

“Thinking of you with thoughts and love and prayers. I do not know when you will be home, but
the thoughts of holding you in my arms brings more love to my heart than any heart can ever
know.” – Ihstu