Linda Croft Wilson

Linda Croft Wilson

Nov. 16, 1946 – Sept. 2, 2023

Linda Croft Wilson peacefully passed away Sept. 2, 2023, surrounded by her family. 

She was born Nov. 16, 1946, in Lovell. Linda was the youngest daughter of Winfield Scott Croft and Beth Marchant. Her siblings, Kay Stevens, Ann Doerr, Ed Croft, Barb Marchant, Pat Kidgel and Wynn Croft, brought joy to her life.

Her early years in Lovell shaped her into the person she became. She attended school in Cowley, where she embraced her education and nurtured her love for music under the influential presence of her Aunt Glen. Linda was a cheerleader for her school and found solace in music, particularly through singing in the choir and playing the piano and the clarinet. She excelled academically.

After graduating high school, she went to San Mateo, California, where she dedicated two years to studying music. While continuing her education at Brigham Young University, she reconnected with Richard Wilson, a friend from high school. This fortunate encounter marked the beginning of their lifelong journey together. They were married Jan. 27, 1968, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Cowley.

Linda welcomed Richard’s daughter, Julie Ann, into her life, and together they brought 10 more children to earth, Wendy Beth, Cole Allen, Harry Bo, Gentry Lynn, Sidney Richal, Richard Allen, Robert Ross, Natalia Marian, James Donley and Kinsley Marie.

An important moment in Linda’s life took place on Feb. 23, 1985, when she and her husband were sealed for eternity in the Cardston Alberta Temple. This sacred event, born out of their love for each other, their children and their devotion to their faith, brought them comfort, knowing that their bond would endure beyond this temporary existence.

Linda drew extraordinary strength from her unwavering belief in her Heavenly Father and her Savior, Jesus Christ. Her children always knew where she stood on matters of values and beliefs, as she remained steadfast and resolute. She will forever be a guiding light for future generations.

Baking brought Linda joy, and one of her last activities was baking gingersnaps with her grandsons and granddaughter. She was the heart and soul of her family, providing love and strength to those around her.

Her loved ones hold dear the memories and values she shared. Linda will be remembered with deep affection as a beloved daughter, devoted wife, exceptional mother and the central figure of her family’s love and devotion. They find comfort in the belief of a joyful reunion with her son James Donley, who passed away in 2017.

She was preceded in death by her son James Donley; parents; sisters Ann, Kay, Beverley and Gloria; and brother Pat.

Linda is survived by her husband, children, 35 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, sister Barbara Marchant, brothers Ed Croft and Wynn Croft, along with many friends.

There will be two services to celebrate Linda. The first will take place in Helena, Montana, Thursday, Sept. 7, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1610 E. 6th Avenue. Viewing will begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by her celebration of life at 10:30.

We will then take her to Wyoming to be buried near her mother Saturday, Sept. 9. The service will be at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 52 Main Street in Cowley. The viewing will begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by a service at 10:30.

Interment will be at the Cowley Cemetery.