Linda Sue (Layman) Lawhorn

Jun 13, 1944 - May 19, 2026

Linda Sue Lawhorn died on May 19, 2026, in Granger, Indiana, surrounded by her loving family. After a brief illness, and true to her wishes, she chose comfort-focused care.

Linda was born on June 13, 1944, in South Bend, Indiana, to Clifford “Pete” and Hildegard Layman. She grew up on Hollywood Place and graduated from Central High School, Class of 1962, before continuing her education at Ball State University. During her early adult years, life took her to several places, including Florida and Michigan, before eventually settling in south-central Indiana and making her home in Ellettsville.

Linda first devoted herself to raising her family, embracing her free-spirited, self-described “hippie” nature. She gardened, canned, baked fresh bread, and even kept bees, creating a warm and resourceful home. Linda had a way of making people feel cared for, welcomed, and loved. As her daughters grew older, she became a kindergarten teacher, sharing her nurturing spirit with many young children.

Later in life, Linda found her professional home at Indiana University Bloomington, working as an administrative assistant in the student activities department. She thrived in this role, supporting student organizations and proudly supporting LGBTQ+ student groups at a time when that support was far less common. One of her favorite traditions was helping organize the beloved annual Madrigal Dinners. She retired from IU in 1997.

In retirement, Linda traveled the country, collecting stories and memories, especially from her time in Texas and Oregon. In her final months, she returned to the Oregon coast, where she found peace watching the Pacific Ocean and passing whales.

Known fondly as “Grandma Linny,” she was a steadfast supporter of her grandchildren, celebrating each of their pursuits with pride and enthusiasm. She leaves behind a legacy of unwavering love, resilience, and laughter that will continue to guide those who knew her.

Linda had a passion for reading, painting, and stitching, and she was known for having an extraordinary green thumb. She could bring a struggling plant back to life, a small but fitting reflection of her nurturing spirit. Her guidance and her plants will be dearly missed.

Over the years, she lived in many places and made friends everywhere she went. She always spoke highly of the people she met and treasured the time she spent with them.

She was preceded in death by her favorite grandmother, Eleanor; her parents; and her two brothers.

She is survived by her daughters, Teresa Hill (Gerald Blazek) and Christy Deykes (Timothy O'Donnell); her grandchildren, Nicholas Kerr (Jesse Vogel-Kerr), AJ Kerr (Megan), and Sierra Donaldson (Vic Rose); and her great-grandchildren, Eli Keller and Calvin Kerr.

The family is grateful for the compassionate care provided by the Center for Hospice and for the support of Dr. Munakampe over the years.

Per her wishes, there will be no services, and she graciously donated her body to science, continuing to give even after her passing.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Native American Rights Fund, the Center for Hospice Care, or the ASPCA.

05/22/2026 EJS