Linda Lou Keller, Plymouth, died at 11:34 p.m. Friday, May 1, 2015, at Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka, after being surrounded by her family for several days. She died after a battle with cancer at the young age of 64 years.

Linda was born, in Plymouth, on April 30, 1951, to Charles and Evalena (Howard) Barcus. She was a lifetime resident of Marshall County. Her first home was a farm where they raised chickens. Her first job was at the Big Mug Drive-In, in Plymouth. She was a graduate of Plymouth High School. One of Linda’s proudest moments was when she had one of her poems entitled, “The Living Seed”, published.

The Living Seed by Linda Keller

Have you thought about a journey-
The seed to start your way?
Have you placed it in the fertile ground-
Where you intend for it to stay?
Have you shown it all the proper care-
As a mindful mother would?
Did you wish for it the very best-
And hope that all was good?
Did you keep in mind just where it was-
And check to see a sprout?
Did you feel a burst of joy within-
When your seeding first came out?
The seeds of thought were planted-
With you in mind you see.
A place was made and kept for you-
The rest was up to me.

Linda and Philip R. Keller were married at Saint Michael Catholic Church, in Plymouth, on July 8, 1972. Together they raised three daughters. Linda’s greatest joy was spending time with her family. She will be fondly remembered by all who loved her.

Linda worked for Avon for many years, often working two jobs, while continuing to raise her family. She retired from Cardinal Center, where she worked as a caregiver. She continued her caregiving role and hard work, in helping to raise her grandchildren, for her daughters. She was a member of New Song Community Church and the Plymouth Moose Lodge.

Linda was very skilled in writing. She was also amazingly talented with her hands and loved creating art projects, crafts and paintings. Linda painted on everything from canvas, to wood, and even a semi-truck. She was skilled at crocheting and enjoyed listening to music, especially classical. She had fun hosting family holidays. She always made extra food so everyone could take leftovers home with them.

Linda is survived by her husband: Philip R. Keller; he three daughters: Sarah Shelley, Rhonda Keller and Amanda Keller, all of Plymouth; her grandchildren: Kim (Austin) Baker, Indianapolis; Kaitlyn Keller; Jason and Joseph Shelley; Madison Keller; Cassandra “Sissy” Salach; and Zachary Salach; one great-grandson she enjoyed very much: Korvin Rochelo, all of Plymouth. Also surviving Linda are her mother: Evalena Barcus; her brothers: Ed Barcus, Plymouth; James (Maryann) Barcus, Frankfort, Ill.; sister-in-law: Darlene Barcus, Argos; and her sisters: Ruth Shorter; Laura Stiles; Sharon (Dale) Kamp; and Jean (Bob) Rees, Plymouth. Linda is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Linda was preceded in death by her father: Charles Barcus; her brothers: Bob Barcus; and Paul Barcus; her sisters: Betty Lawson; Sandra Davenport; and Nancy Spiek, all of Plymouth; her sister-in-law: Lenda Barcus; and her brothers-in-law: Harold Stiles; and Jack Shorter.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. Friday, May 22, at New Song Community Church, Plymouth. Services begin at 11 a.m. after visitation, also at the church, with Rev. Lowell Ott officiating. Burial will be at New Oak Hill Cemetery, Plymouth.

Memorials may be given to The Center for Hospice Care, Plymouth.

Linda would like for her friends and family, to be comfortably and casually dressed, for her visitation and services.