Linda Sue Widmar (DeShaw) was born on April 23, 1958, and passed away peacefully on February 1, 2026.
She lived a life filled with love, laughter, and dedication to her family and all who knew her, leaving a lasting impression on everyone she touched. She was born in Hopkinton, Iowa and raised in Elkader, Iowa, by her loving parents, Donna and Francis, who instilled in her the values of kindness, responsibility, and perseverance. Growing up on a farm with her five brothers; Dennis, David, Edward, Ronald, and Timothy, she learned the importance of hard work, family, and caring deeply for others. Family was the heart of her life. She shared a sweet, playful, and loving marriage with her husband, Chris, since 1986. She was a devoted mother to her children, Seth, Danielle, and Brandon, and carried in her heart the love and memory of her son, Brandon, following his passing. Her kindness, warmth, and quiet strength touched everyone around her, and her love for her family was boundless. She cherished time spent with her nieces and nephews, always ready to spoil them with joy and love. One of her greatest joys came from being a grandmother to her grandson, Kamden, whom she adored and spoiled whenever she could.
She attended Wartburg College, where she studied education and French. In 1980, she moved to Centerville, Iowa, and began her teaching career at Seymour High School, later continuing at Albia High School. Over the years, she inspired and guided generations of students, leaving a lasting impact in the classroom. She was deeply respected by her colleagues and cherished by her students for her patience, compassion, and unwavering encouragement. Outside of her family and work, she found happiness in gardening and reading. She was known for her unforgettable laugh, her warm smile, and her fun-loving, cheerful nature. She had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome, valued, and loved, and her presence brightened every room she entered. She lived a life surrounded by love and left a legacy of compassion, joy, and strength that will continue to inspire her family, friends, and the many students whose lives she touched. She is survived by her husband, Chris Widmar; children, Seth Widmar; Danielle Widmar; grandson, Kamden Olateru; mother, Donna DeShaw; siblings, Denny (Linda) DeShaw; Tim (Sharolyn) DeShaw. She was preceded in death by her father, Francis; son, Brandon, and her brothers David, Edward, and Ronald.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026 at Sinnott Funeral Home in Albia from 3-7 p.m., with family present from 5-7 p.m., at the funeral Home. A mass of christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Thursday, February 5, 2026 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Centerville with Father Ron Hodges officiating. Interment will follow in Oakland Cemetery in Centerville.
Memorials have been established to the family and will be directed at a later date.
