Obituary of Linda Lou Stinnett

Linda Lou Brooks Stinnett passed away peacefully in her home with her family at her side on Monday, November 13th, 2023.

Linda was born September 3rd, 1954 in Boise, Idaho, the second daughter of Dr. Russell Ackerly Brooks and Elizabeth Barnard Brooks. Linda grew up in Meridian, Idaho, and went to school there through her freshman year at Meridian High. She spent her youth traveling with her family, and summer months at their cabin on Cougar Island on Payette Lake in McCall, Idaho. After her parents’ divorce, she lived with her mother and traveled throughout North and South America. She continued high school in Sao Paulo Brazil, before moving to Anchorage, Alaska.

Linda returned to Boise and attended Borah High School, graduating in 1972. After graduation Linda traveled to Haiti to visit her sister. She often talked about how much she was impacted by the brief time she spent there. She then met her life partner and husband, Erwin Stinnett, with whom she would spend 52 short years.

Linda was a dedicated civil servant, working several years for the State Liquor Dispensary and then the United States Postal Service. As a letter carrier, Linda went above and beyond and became involved in the communities she served. She was so well-liked she was asked to help judge the community Christmas light contests. She loved bringing a smile to the faces of those on her route. She was also every dog’s favorite letter carrier and prided herself in making friends with even the most standoffish dogs. She always made sure she had treats in her pocket for those that needed a little extra convincing.

Linda also did her part to build and maintain a good working environment. She was a proud union member and labor organizer, and spent many years advocating for workers’ rights as part of the union leadership of NALC local 331.

Linda enjoyed hiking, whitewater rafting, and off-grid camping in her RV. She loved spending time in the Pacific Northwest and regularly traveled to be near the ocean. Wherever she was, she always took the time to appreciate a sunset, each perfect in its own way.

Linda was devoted to rescuing animals in need. Her love for animals even included “stuffed-ups”; she’d often bring them home because they “looked lonely.” After her father passed, Linda inherited his Great Pyrenees dog and became passionate about finding homes for other Great Pyrenees, volunteering for various rescue organizations and adopting several more herself.

Linda is survived by her husband Erwin Stinnett, son and daughter-in-law Rowdy Stinnett and Chantel Fox, and daughter and son-in-law Kadra and Scott Spencer. She also leaves behind her older sister Caroline Kueneman, brother-in-law and sister-in-law Jerramy and Linda Marie Stinnett, sister-in-law Lavonia Ragsdale, niece and nephew Erica and Jordan Kueneman, nephew Zachary Stinnett, niece Annastasia Gee, and great niece and great nephew Mariana and Theodore.

In life Linda was selfless, courageous, and strong. She was love personified. The light and love she brought into this world will carry on in those lucky enough to have known her. She was loved by all and will be missed.

Per Linda’s request, no funeral service will be held. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in Linda's name to the Great Pyrenees Rescue Society via PayPal @GPRSThanks or Venmo @GreatPyreneseRescueSociety.