January 25, 1950 - April 7, 2025
Linda Jean Boyd, 75, of Spicewood, Texas, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2025, at the Christopher House in Austin, Texas, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on January 25, 1950, in Lebanon, Indiana, Linda was the firstborn of Roy Byron Downey and Phyllis Jean (Lusk) Downey. Growing up, she cherished playing in the backyard playhouse her father built and playing in the neighborhood with friends. A straight-A student with a lifelong love of reading, Linda was always curious, responsible, and bright.
A proud graduate of Lebanon High School's Class of 1968, Linda earned her degree from Indiana Central Business College and began her professional journey through several secretarial and office management roles. In 1980, she joined Medi-Span, a pharmaceutical publishing company, where she built a distinguished 18-year career and rose to become Vice President of Sales and Marketing. It was there she found both professional fulfillment and personal joy, meeting her future husband, James (Jim) Boyd.
Linda and Jim married on March 10, 1989, and made their home in Indianapolis, Indiana. Together, they built a life of laughter, travel, and meaningful friendships. They eventually settled in Fort Worth, Texas, where they found a strong community of friends centered around golf, music, and hosting dinner clubs. Linda loved living at and being a member of Mira Vista Country Club. Her competitive and fun spirit on the golf course helped her and Jim proudly win a few club championship titles together. She also enjoyed serving alongside her friends on committees to host the renowned Kathy Whitworth Invitational.
Linda's energy and entrepreneurial spirit never waned. In 2007, she partnered with her daughter to open a retail boutique outside Austin. What began as a fun venture quickly became her passion. Linda poured herself into every aspect of the business—strategic planning, buying merchandise, and building lasting relationships with small business owners nationwide.
Linda didn't know how to do anything halfway. She led with drive and determination, whether chasing a career goal, learning a new skill on the slopes or golf course, or encouraging those around her to aim higher. She brought that same "go big or go home" attitude to all she did —including her cocktails and M&M's!
Linda leaves behind a legacy of independence, perseverance, and strength. She touched many lives, especially those of her only daughter and granddaughter, who will carry her spirit forward with grace and grit.
She is survived by her daughter, Jaime Cardinal; granddaughter, Piper Cardinal; siblings Mike Downey (Jane), Jack Downey (Diane), and Connie Clouser (Keith); and many beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Jim.
A celebration of life will be held for family and friends, with date and location to be shared once plans are confirmed. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice Austin's Christopher House or a charity meaningful to your family.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Linda, please visit our floral store.