Linda Darnell (Porter) Mathis

Linda Darnell (Porter) Mathis was born on November 1, 1950, to Robert Frost Porter, Sr. and Annie Mae (Watson) Porter in Waco, Texas. The twelfth of fifteen children, she transitioned to eternity on June 1, 2023, in Dallas, Texas. 

Linda attended J.H. Hines and R.L. Smith. She graduated from Waco High School where she was a member of the band. 

In June of 1968, Linda married the love of her life, Homer Dwayne Mathis, and three children were born to this union.

At an early age, Linda was baptized at Greater Mount Olive Baptist Church in Waco, Texas, where she served for many years. Upon moving to Dallas, Texas, she united with First Baptist Church of Hamilton Park. She later joined Mt. Hebron Baptist Church in Garland, Texas, where she served until her health declined.

Linda attended business school in Dallas, Texas. After many years of service, she retired from the Dallas County Tax Office. During her retirement, Linda delighted in spending time assisting with raising her great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy.

Linda led by example. There was never a job too large or too small that she would not tackle. She was a strong, determined, and fiercely independent woman. Her presence will be missed, but her spirit will live on in all who were blessed enough to cross her path and have her in their lives. We will find comfort in the memories we shared and will continue to exemplify her love for each of us. We will miss her every day.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Annie Porter; and three sisters - Dorothy Jean Tate, Robbie Mae Mitchell, and James Etta Williams.

Those left to cherish precious memories and continue her legacy of love include her three children - Lahoma Clay (Myron) of Garland, Texas, Urschela Warren (Albert) of Katy, Texas, and Tyrone  Mathis (Vanessa) of Los Angeles, California; five grandchildren - Cory Mathis, Crystal Smith (Bobby), Andre Mathis (Brittany), Jamyron Clay, and LaTesha Mathis; fourteen great-grandchildren - Dacorian, Taijah, Javonnie, Bryce, Adrianna, Savannah, Chanel, Lauren, Andre Jr., Harmony, Brianna, Sabastian, Kaliapea, and Olivia Rose; one great-great-grandson, ZaKia; three brothers - Julius, Robert Jr., and Eric (Grace); seven sisters - Loletha, Evelyn (Bert), Georgia, Rosalyn, Rowena, Debra, and Rachel who was very dear to her heart; a host of nieces, nephews, and other family members; and two dearest friends, Bessie Jordan and Janice Smith.

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