Linda Dell Pennington

Linda Pennington, 80, of Pipe Creek, Texas, passed away peacefully in her beloved log cabin on the hill on May 10, 2026.

Born on November 17, 1945, in Springhill, Louisiana, to Ralph and Cortez Pennington, Linda carried a lifelong passion for learning and teaching. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in 1967 and her Master’s degree in 1970 from Louisiana Tech University, laying the foundation for a remarkable career in education and coaching.

Linda’s love for guiding young people led her to Slidell High School in Louisiana and later to San Antonio, Texas, where she dedicated 30 years to Sidney Lanier High School. There, she inspired generations of students as a track and cross-country coach and brought joy and spirit as the leader of the cheerleading squad, pep squad, dance team, and the Voks mascots. Among her proudest achievements were taking her cross-country team to compete in Hawaii four times, giving her students unforgettable experiences and lifelong memories.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Linda was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is survived by her sons Paul Payne (Janette) and Rene Gomez (Melisa); her granddaughters Shelby and Sarrah, and Kimberly (Tory) and Katelynn (Lucas); and her great-grandchildren Lily, Alexandria, Kenzie, and Elias. She also leaves behind her beloved fur companions, Daisy and Boudreaux.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved best friend and baby brother, James Pennington.

In true Linda fashion, she requested no formal services. Those wishing to honor her memory are encouraged to make a donation to a local animal shelter, continuing her love for animals and nurturing spirit.

Her warmth, dedication, and infectious enthusiasm will be remembered by all whose lives she touched.