Linda Joyce Smith

Linda Joyce (Huss) Smith, a beloved daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, friend, was born May 14, 1945, in Wahpeton, North Dakota, to Ernest and Alma (Stovenor) Huss. She spent her formative years on the farm near Mooreton, ND, where she helped with chores and developed a strong work ethic that would stay with her throughout her life. Linda attended school in Dwight and Wyndmere, shaping her into the caring individual she would become.

Following her graduation, Linda ventured to Fergus Falls, Minnesota, to pursue her dream of becoming a hairdresser by attending beauty school. It was there that she began writing letters to a soldier named Jerry Smith, who was stationed overseas. Their correspondence blossomed into a beautiful love story when Jerry surprised Linda with a visit during his leave, leading to their marriage on April 23, 1966. They started their life together in Minneapolis before settling in Edina.

Linda’s devotion as a mother shone brightly when she welcomed her daughter, Connie, followed by her son, Steven. Over the years, the family created cherished memories living in various Minnesota towns including Redwood Falls, Montevideo, Alexandria, and Fergus Falls, before finally calling Fargo, North Dakota, home in 1976. From 1988-1992, the family lived at their lake home on Middle Cormorant Lake, where laughter and love filled the air until Jerry’s untimely death. 

After moving to Moorhead, Linda's nurturing spirit continued to shine as she dedicated herself to caring for others, providing compassion and support to many in the community. She retired in 2017, and moved in with her daughter in Lake Park, Minnesota, where she continued to nurture her family. 

Linda will always be remembered for her selflessness, generosity, and warm heart. She found immense joy in creating homemade greeting cards, celebrating every occasion with beloved friends and family. An avid fan of games, Linda delighted in playing solitaire—first in its classic form and later electronically. She also loved solving word search puzzles and enjoyed nightly games of aggravation with her daughter for the past seven years. 

As a grandmother, Linda's love was unconditional. She proudly supported her grandsons at their games, imparting values and wisdom that they will carry into their lives. In recent years, her heart expanded yet again to embrace her great-grandchildren, creating a legacy of love and kindness that will endure. 

Linda Joyce Smith touched the lives of many with her compassion and selflessness. She will be dearly missed, but her spirit will continue to guide and inspire all who knew her.

She is survived by one daughter Connie (Brian) Oak of Lake Park, MN; two grandsons: Dillion Oak of Lake Park, and Steven (Adria) Oak of Detroit Lakes, MN; seven great grandchildren: Brekka Hennix, Bailey Oak, Bryant Oak, Harper Oak, Kori Oak, Anders Oak, and soon to be born Adele Oak; two sisters: Bonnie (Ronnie) Thom of Moorhead, MN, and Diane Myers of Kindred, ND; two sisters in law: Paula McKay of Arizona, Jackie (Elm) Koch of Bloomington, MN; and several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. 

Linda was preceded in death by her husband Jerry Smith, son Steven Smith, and brother Robert Huss. 

Linda Smith, age 79, of Lake Park, MN, formerly of Moorhead, MN, died on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at Essentia Hospital in Fargo, ND. 

Funeral services will be 1:00 PM, Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at Korsmo Funeral Service with Deacon Rob Thom officiating. Burial will follow in Riverside Cemetery, Moorhead, MN. 

Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the funeral service on Wednesday.