Linda Ann Varner

Linda Collins Varner, born on July 25, 1936, in Columbus, Arkansas, passed away on May 14, 2026, surrounded by the love and comfort of her devoted family.

Linda was the beloved daughter of Clarence Collins and Dorothy Cannon Collins. To her husband, Joe Charles Varner, she was a guiding light and cherished partner. Married on June 12, 1958, they shared nearly sixty-eight incredibly happy years side-by-side, creating a family that was the center of Linda’s universe. She is survived by her husband Joe, her daughter Jo Lynne Varner and husband Mike Surrette, her granddaughter Megan Olshavsky and husband Jonathon, her grandson John Robert Surrette, and her great-grandson Jonah Olshavsky. Cousins, nieces and nephews, along with a wide circle of friends who are like family, also survive her.

Linda was a proud graduate of Saratoga High School, class of 1954, as well as Harding College and the University of Arkansas, from which she graduated in 1958. She dedicated her professional life to shaping young minds as a junior high science teacher in the Texarkana Arkansas School District, where she left an indelible mark on countless students, as well as the educators who taught alongside her.

Her love for travel took her and Joe across the globe. The Galapagos Islands and Alaskan cruises held a special place in her heart, as did the years spent traveling to Barbie and doll conventions. A loyal fan of George Strait, Linda attended more concerts than she could count, and her enthusiasm for Razorback basketball was a shared joy with Joe, whether cheering from home or traveling afar for a tournament.

Linda's legacy includes her culinary prowess, with family and friends fondly recalling the hospitality of her kitchen and the joy-filled gatherings at her beloved lake house. Her chicken salad was known far and wide. Her nurturing spirit and zest for life were felt by all who knew her and tried a piece of her chocolate sheet cake.

A service to celebrate Linda's remarkable life will be held on May 18, at 1:00 PM at Saratoga Cemetery in Saratoga, Arkansas. Her family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of the Manor in Benton, Gentiva Hospice of Bryant, and especially April Ball for their compassionate care and support during Linda's final days. Linda's life was a testament to devoted love, loyal friendship, joyful adventure, and the nourishment of shared meals. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

You may send an online sympathy message at www.latimerfuneralhome.com