Linda Ann (Gauthier) Porter

Dunnellon - Linda Ann Gauthier-Porter, 67, entered the eternal realms of the heavenly kingdom in the early morning hours on Wednesday, January 15, 2020 while under the care of hospice at the Legacy house in Ocala. She leaves behind her mother, Gladyce Gauthier, Dunnellon, FL; her brother, Charles Gauthier and his wife Susan, Tallahassee; her niece, Henna Gauthier; her nephew, Eric Gauthier and her beloved dog Sugar. Linda is preceded in death by her father, Charles Clifford Gauthier.

On March 30, 1952 Linda entered this world in North Kingstown, Rhode Island. She lived in various states including Rhode Island, Connecticut, California, New York, Washington, Massachusetts, Hawaii and Florida due to her father’s Naval career. During her childhood years Linda loved to read and visit her Grandpa Eddie and Grandma Rose. As a graduate of the University of Connecticut and following her father’s retirement, her family moved to St. Petersburg. Linda then completed a Graduate Degree at Florida State University, and utilized her education by working for the library system of St. Petersburg. Later she returned to Tallahassee, to serve as a supervisor at the State Library. In the year 2000 she moved to Dunnellon to be closer to her parents. While in Dunnellon she attended classes at Sante Fe College in Gainesville, she returned to the workforce with the Marion County Public Library until retirement.

Linda was an avid reader who eagerly consumed hundreds of books. She also grew a love for plants that led her to achieve status as a Master Gardner. She enjoyed providing lectures and advice to homeowners about plants. Linda loved animals; she was passionate about rescuing animals in need. She cherished her many dogs, especially Cody, and her prized horse Valita. Linda cared deeply for her many communities of friends with whom she shared countless good times, laughter and was always happy to assist.

She was a godsend to her mother, Gladyce, serving as a companion and best friend. They enjoyed taking many trips to the far reaches of the world including; Alaska, Hawaii, Europe, New England and their favorite, Williamsburg.

In addition to her career and hobbies she had a heart and love for her Heavenly Father. Linda’s faith continued to grow “like plants” each and every day, as she watered it with her love for her church. She was a loyal servant of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Dunnellon, where she gladly contributed to various ministries such as head of the Eucharistic Ministers. She had roles as a reader, an alter server, the Alter and Rosary Society, she was with the bereavement group and was the assistant to the Deacon in Liturgy. Linda was a gentle and peaceful soul who resembled Christ in her love for her family, friends, neighbors and newcomers.

Linda’s passing was quite unexpected; although her love, her memories and her gentleness will always be remembered in our hearts. She will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her, until we all meet again in that Glorious City.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, January 22, 2020 at 10:30 AM at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Dunnellon. A repast will follow in the church hall.

Memorial Contributions can be made in Linda’s memory to the Golden Retriever Rescue: GRRMF, P.O. Box 1449, Goldenrod, FL 32733.

(https://www.grrmf.org/donate/ )

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