Natchitoches Community in Mourning: Remembering Linda Marie Doll Lee

News Summary

The Natchitoches community is grieving the loss of Linda Marie Doll Lee, a beloved educator and community member. She passed away on November 19, 2024, leaving a legacy of kindness and dedication. A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for November 22, where friends and family will gather to honor her life. Linda’s impact on her community and her students will be remembered fondly as many come together to celebrate her remarkable contributions.

Natchitoches Community in Mourning: Remembering Linda Marie Doll Lee

The charming town of Natchitoches is coming together this week to pay homage to one of its most cherished members, Linda Marie Doll Lee, who passed away peacefully on November 19, 2024, at the Natchitoches Regional Medical Center. Surrounded by her loving family during her final moments, Linda’s departure has left a profound void that many in the community are feeling deeply.

An Emotional Farewell

A Mass of Christian Burial has been scheduled for November 22, 2024, at 11 a.m. at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, where community members, friends, and family will gather to reflect on Linda’s remarkable life. The service will be officiated by Rev. Irion St. Romain, with the support of Very Rev. Michael Craig Scott during the ceremony. Following the Mass, Linda will be laid to rest at Memory Lawn Cemetery, with arrangements kindly handled by Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home.

A Time for Remembrance

For those looking to express their condolences in person, family visitation is set for November 21, 2024, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the funeral home, which will include a heartfelt Rosary service at 7:30 p.m. This provides an opportunity for the community to come together to share their memories and celebrate Linda’s life.

Linda’s Life and Legacy

Linda was widely recognized for her unwavering kindness and generosity. A devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and esteemed educator, she dedicated over three decades to teaching children in the Natchitoches Parish School District. She began her career teaching kindergarten and later worked in special education preschool, culminating in a rewarding role as an early interventionist. Her dedication to shaping young minds was evident in her work until her recent retirement in May 2024.

Born to Julia Lee Etheridge and Eugene Mathias Doll, Linda was the second of four siblings, sharing her childhood with sisters Donna and Gloria and brother Dennis. In 1987, Linda returned to Natchitoches after working as a financial advisor, where she met her soulmate Edd. They found love and joy together, marrying on February 2, 1991. Linda’s family grew to include her children, Lindsay Adele Lee and Robert Warner Lee, and her cherished granddaughter, Adele Marie Lee, born in 2021.

Community Involvement

A long-time member of the Basilica, Linda was not just an educator but also played a significant role in various community organizations. Her involvement in the Catholic Daughters of America and the Service League of Natchitoches showcased her commitment to serving others. Additionally, Linda found joy in her social gatherings with the Chicken Foot Girls card group, where laughter and friendship flourished.

Support from Loved Ones

Linda leaves behind her beloved husband, Edd Robert Lee, children Lindsay and Robert (who is married to Catherine), her precious granddaughter, her sister Gloria, brother Dennis, and a host of in-laws, family, and friends who will remember her fondly. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister Donna.

A Tribute of Gratitude

The community is encouraged to honor Linda’s memory by making memorial donations to the Restoration Fund at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception or the Heart of Louisiana Humane Society. The family also extends their heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Mary Long, Dr. Manish Dhawan, and the staff at the Louisiana Extended Care Hospital for their exceptional care during Linda’s illness.

This remarkable woman will be sorely missed, but her legacy of love and dedication will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of many.