Linda A. Gunning of 14 Weatherby Rd, Trumansburg, passed away unexpectedly at Cayuga Medical Center on Thursday, February 17, 2011, at the age of 65.

Born on February 27, 1945 in Elmira, Linda was the daughter of Judd and Lula (Hull) Parrott. With a solid foundation of loving family values, instilled by her parents, Linda nurtured and enthusiastically supported her children and grandchildren.  Her genuine interest in 4-H encouraged the children to do their best.  Together, Linda and her husband Donald shouldered the countless details of operating their farm. With a keen sense of balance in life, the end of a hard day’s work was often rewarded by an evening of family time. After Don passed away, Linda filled her free time by playing cards, bowling, or just fishing. She was an active member of the Living Water Christian Fellowship. A staple of farm and family, life revolved around the kitchen table where countless meals were served with love. Linda’s infectious laugh, zest for fun, and a kitchen abounding in fabulous cooking attracted many. Known for her pancakes, homemade bread and sweet rolls, one never knew who might show up at mealtime.

Linda’s warm heart and genuine concern for others dovetailed perfectly with her position as a Family Liaison with Ithaca City School District’s Pre-K Program. Her guidance will be sorely missed.

In addition to her mother, Linda was preceded in death by her husband, Donald on February 14, 2002; a grandson, Ian and a brother, Frank. She is survived by her father, Judd of Cayuta; one son, Donny II (Karen) of Trumansburg; three daughters, Rebecca (Tom) Gunningsmith of Trumansburg, Teresa (Mike) Scholtisek of Odessa and Carrie DiStefano of Trumansburg; nine grandchildren, Damian (Lauren) Gunningsmith, Kyle, Ryan and Tyler Gunningsmith, Samantha (Greg) Jennings, Josh, Joe and Margaret Markley and Abigail Gunning; two great-grandchildren, Anastazia and Leonidas Jennings; one brother, Raymond (Joanne) Parrott of Cayuta; one sister, Susan (Merle) Collins of Cayuta; several sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews and many friends. Linda’s hope-filled spirit will continue to live on in the warmth of the hearts of those who knew and loved her.  

 A Memorial Service will begin at 3:00 pm on Sunday, February 20^th at the Living Waters Christian Fellowship, 162 Enfield Main Rd, Ithaca with the Rev. Jack Osburn and the Rev. Chris Lynch officiating.

The family asks those who wish to make a contribution in Linda’s memory to kindly consider the American Cancer Society, 13 Beech St, Johnson City, New York 13790.