Linda J. Herron

In Loving Memory: Linda Jean Sullivan Mitchell Herron | February 15, 1951 - February 5, 2024 Linda Jean Sullivan Mitchell Herron was born on February 15, 1951, in Gray Court, South Carolina, the cherished daughter of Collier M. Sullivan and Elizabeth (Goode) Sullivan. Her journey began with grace and resilience, shaping a life rich in love, accomplishment, and service to others. At a tender age, Linda embarked on a transformative path, moving to Ohio with her devoted mother. Surrounded by family in Youngstown, she found solace and support in the embrace of her aunt, uncle and cousins. While they lived apart for a little while, the bond with her mother during their weekly visits remained unbreakable, a testament to their enduring love. Education became both a passion and a pursuit for Linda, who excelled academically and musically. Her years at Glenville High School were marked by her musical talents, as she graced the halls with the melodies of her clarinet. Her faith journey began early, intertwined with her love for music, leading her to share her voice in gospel choirs (Young Gospel Sounds-1969; The Sounds of Gospel-1976; Adventist Gospel Ensemble-1979; and the Love Ensemble-1985) across Cleveland. After dating in high school, in 1970, Linda married David R. Mitchell. After a brief chapter in Anchorage, Alaska, their love story continued in Cleveland, OH and brought forth their beloved daughter Pamela A. Mitchell. Linda pursued her academic dreams and professional aspirations. Whether in personal conversations, professional settings, or community engagements, Linda emphasized the value of seeking evidence-based knowledge and ensuring that statements were grounded in reality. Armed with determination and resilience, Linda earned her Bachelor's Degree from Notre Dame College of Ohio and pursued advanced studies at Case Western Reserve and the University of Michigan. Her thirty-year career in banking and finance bore witness to her unwavering dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence, culminating in her role as Senior Vice President - Human Resources at First of America Bank - Illinois. Love found Linda again in the form of Julius A. Herron, whom she married in November, 1998. For twenty-seven years, together they embraced their new chapter of life, retirement, with open hearts, and savored the simple joys of life, including golf outings, leisurely walks to spending time with their grandchildren. Linda's passions extended far beyond her professional endeavors, encompassing the arts, literacy, and the joy of movement. Her zest for life found expression in hobbies old and new, from fitness, line dancing to roller skating, each moment a celebration of the vibrant spirit within her. Linda bid farewell to her beloved husband Julius in 2020, her father Collier M. Sullivan, her mother Elizabeth (Goode) Blount, and her brother Carl A. Blount. Yet, her legacy endures in the hearts of those who loved her dearly. She is survived by her daughter Pamela (Michael) Douglas, her granddaughters Victoria and Michelle Douglas, her brothers Maurice Sullivan and John Blount, and a host of cherished relatives and friends. Linda leaves behind a blended family enriched by love, including bonus children Michael Todd (Alina) Herron and Crystal Herron, and bonus grandchildren Alisia, Alia, Alise, Christian, and Conner. In celebrating the life of Linda Jean Herron, let us remember her as a woman of remarkable strength, kindness, and generosity. May her legacy inspire us to embrace each day with God, to lead our lives with grace, to nurture our passions, and to cherish the bonds of love that endure beyond the veil of earthly existence. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests considering donations to the following organizations, which held special significance to Linda Jean Sullivan Mitchell Herron: ● Southfield Public Library: Supporting the City of Southfield Library helps foster literacy, education, and community engagement, honoring Linda's commitment to literacy and lifelong learning. ● COTS Detroit (Coalition on Temporary Shelter): Contributions to COTS Detroit provide vital support and resources to individuals and families experiencing homelessness, embodying Linda's dedication to serving those in need and fostering compassion within our communities. ● Karamu House of Cleveland: Karamu House of Cleveland stands as a beacon of artistic expression, cultural enrichment, and community empowerment. Donations to Karamu House honor Linda's passion for the arts and her commitment to nurturing creativity and diversity. Your generosity will honor Linda's memory and continue her legacy of kindness, compassion, and service to others. Thank you for considering these meaningful contributions. Memorial arrangements will be shared with family and friends to honor Linda's life and memory. Please encourage the Douglas and Herron family with words of Love and Condolences on this personal tribute page created just for Linda Herron.