Linda J. Borthwick (née Beal), age 69, of Elyria, Ohio, passed away peacefully on November 26th, following a long illness. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend.

A proud 1974 graduate of Elyria High School, Linda began a distinguished 36 year career in public service, dedicating over 20 years to the Elyria Police Department as the secretary of the Detective Bureau, and later as an administrative assistant to Dennis Will at the Lorain County Prosecutor's Office. Her professionalism and warmth left a lasting impact on all who worked alongside her.

Linda met the love of her life, Scott, in second grade, at McKinley Elementary. They began "talking to each other" in seventh grade while at Eastern Heights Junior High School, attended all their high school homecoming dances and proms together, and in 1976, they were married. Together, they shared a deep connection, supported each other through the good times and bad, and loved one another through 48 wonderful years of marriage.

Three children, nine grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, blessed Linda's life in unimaginable ways. Lovingly called "Baki" by the grandkids, she adored each one of them, and nothing made her happier than having a full house.

Every friend Linda had was so very special and important to her - work friends, high school friends (Go class of 74!), Florida friends and neighborhood friends. She always felt blessed having so many meaningful relationships, and the joy others brought to her throughout life.

Linda's passions extended far beyond her professional life. She was an extraordinary seamstress and quilter, whose creative talents enriched the lives of her family and friends. She found joy in gardening, being a dog-mom to her Cotons De Tuléar, Bentley and Mabel, hosting vibrant summer barbecues by her pool and preparing unforgettable holiday feasts. Halloween, her favorite holiday and birthday, brought her great joy, as she embraced the costumes and earned a reputation as a good witch.

A connoisseur of life, Linda enjoyed traveling to many destinations, including California's wine country, France, Italy, and Germany, where she visited her sister Marcie. Wintering in Ft. Myers Beach, Florida, her favorite vacation spot, brought her many great memories and friends throughout the years, and she treasured her visits to Brooklyn, New York, to visit her son Scott.

Linda's memory will be forever cherished by her loving husband, Scott J. Borthwick of Elyria; her children: Cortney (BJ Huge) of Elyria, Katie Borthwick-Barnes of Elyria, and Scott J. Borthwick II (Ryan Barash) of Columbus; her adoring grandchildren: Brittney, Tyler, Madison, Mikayla, Abigail, Emma, Maggie, Benjamin, and Lincoln; and her precious great-grandchildren: Ryleigh and Braxton. She is also survived by her siblings, Marcie (George Krozier) and Bill Beal, as well as countless friends from all walks of her life.

She is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Grace Nieding and Russell Beal; brother, Don Beal; and sister, Beverly Lehman.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Linda's life during a visitation on Tuesday, from 4-7 PM at Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home, 38475 Chestnut Ridge Rd, Elyria, Ohio 44035. (440)322-4626.  A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, from 12-1 PM at Community of Faith, 9715 East River Rd, Elyria, OH 44035.

Linda's kindness, creativity, and infectious love for life will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Rest in peace, Linda, and thank you for the countless memories you leave behind. Online condolences to the family may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com