Linda Sue (McDonald) Forney

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Linda S. Forney on July 22, 2025, at the age of 71. Linda was born on May 20, 1954, in Salem, Ohio to James and Carol McDonald. She spent her life surrounded by love and family.

Linda graduated from Salem High School and on September 22, 1973, she married Jim Forney and together welcomed three children into their lives.

Linda was not only a devoted wife and mother but also a proud grandmother to four grandchildren—Benjamin Elenz, Zachary Elenz, Wyatt Forney, and Katelynn Forney. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she delighted in watching them grow and thrive. Linda's nurturing and loving presence will be sorely missed by all who knew her.

Linda is survived by her husband, Jim Forney, daughter Jamie (Jim) Elenz, son Josh (Kari) Forney, mother, Carol McDonald, her siblings Debbie (Augie) Thomas, Darlene (Tom) Blocksom, Cindy (Jeff) Boyett, and Jim (Amy) McDonald; and sister-in-law Barbara Knee. She was preceded in death by her cherished daughter, Jackie Sue Wright (Forney), her father, James McDonald, and her in-laws, Dean and Pauline Forney. The loss of Linda will be felt deeply by her family and friends, who remember her as a person full of love.

Linda was a member of the Methodist Church in Leetonia.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and caregivers at the Hope Center for Cancer Care and St. Elizabeth's Hospital in Boardman for their exceptional care and compassion during Linda's final days. Your kindness did not go unnoticed, and it provided comfort to the family during this difficult time.

In honor of Linda’s wishes, private services will be held for immediate family only.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Shriners Children's Hospital in Linda's memory. It reflects her giving nature and her desire to help children in need.

Linda will be remembered for her boundless faith and love, her strength, and her unwavering commitment to her family. She leaves behind a beautiful legacy, one that will be carried in the hearts of her loved ones forever. Rest in peace, dear Linda; you will be missed more than words can express.

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