Obituary of Linda D. Knudsen

Linda D. Knudsen on July 6, 2012, a true “Memphis Belle”, Linda D. Knudsen passed away after 89 years of a storied life. She was born 20, May 1923 to Charles Franklin and Anna Mae Deaton in Memphis, Tennessee, Addie Linda Deaton. “Lollie” as she was known to some of her childhood friends, Mamason to her grandchildren and great grandchildren, just Linda to her husband of 66 years, John T. Knudsen (Jack). She attended St. Agnes Academy for girls and Memphis State before leaving home to become an airline stewardess for American Airlines. She met Jack in Hollywood, he a young Navy lieutenant out of Long Beach, CA. They were married 9, Nov 1946. As a “Navy Wife” and mother, she called on her faith to manage the constant moves and five children, four boys and one girl. She taught the meaning of friendship and selflessness to others and by the time Jack retired in McLean, VA in 1965 she had all her wealth in her faith, family and friends. For the next forty – seven years, Linda practiced her faith as a St. Luke’s parishioner, helped her children develop and go off to college and marry, and enjoyed her forever growing number of friends. She loved travel and took advantage of the empty nest to make more than several memorable trips abroad with Jack and friends. Her interest in the local area’s sights and history led to a hobby, more than one job as a tour guide. For many of her nieces and nephews, family and friends, she will be remembered as a trusted friend, the perfect host and for the energy and enthusiasm she used to share her knowledge of this area during a visit with Linda. To her children and grandchildren she will be remembered as our firm but loving support, for the comfort she gave, and for the “kick in the butt” and hug needed to keep going. To Jack, Linda will be remembered as his best friend and the love of a lifetime. Linda is survived by her husband, John T. Knudsen of McLean, VA, daughter, Karen S. Knudsen of Coronado, CA, son, Michael B. Knudsen of McLean, VA, son, Mark Eric Knudsen of Great Falls, VA, son, John Kevin Knudsen of Falls Church, VA, and son Peter B. Knudsen of Leesburg, VA; brother, Roy F. Deaton of Metairie, LA, and sister, Patricia Ann Wilson of Excelsior Springs, MO. Linda had twelve grandchildren and two great grandchildren. A ceremony will be planned in the future. Instead of flowers, please make contributions to your favorite charity in her name. Remembrances and cards should be addressed to the home address in McLean.