Linda Reese Queen

Linda Reese Queen, 73, of Swannanoa, NC passed away on December 8th, 2024, surrounded by her loving family and her partner.

Linda was born on June 25th, 1951 in Swannanoa, NC, the daughter of Bill and Agnes Reese.

Linda graduated from Owen High School in 1969, then went on to earn her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education at Appalachian State University. Linda went on to pursue a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education, as well as her Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree. She was recognized as a National Board Scholar. Linda was also nominated and selected multiple times for Teacher of the Year in her school and county.

While living in Boone, Linda met and married Joe Dean Queen. After spending several years in the Burlington, NC area, they later returned to Boone where Linda lived until 2021. She moved to Holly Springs, NC in 2022 to be close to her children and grandchildren.

Linda is preceded in death by her parents Bill and Agnes Reese, brother Philip Reese, and ex-husband Dean Queen.

Linda is survived by her long time partner of 15 years, Lindsay Garland of Black Mountain. They also happened to be high school sweethearts who reunited later in life. Linda is also survived by her three children, Jason Queen of Fuquay Varina, Keisha Queen and their six children Carrington, Channing, Kareana, Brittain, Blaine, and Camille; her daughter Courtney Queen and spouse PJ Puryear ofApex, NC and their two daughters Noelani and Penelope; and Jordan Queen and spouse Carin Queen of Evanston, IL and their daughter Dove.

Linda Queen had many passions in life. She dedicated her life to teaching children, and later she taught educators-to-be at Appalachian State University. She was a beloved teacher and mentor to hundreds of students in her 30 plus year career.

Family was her sole priority, and after raising her children and retiring, her world revolved around traveling to see all of her children and grandchildren and being present for every special occasion in their lives. Linda took after her mother Agnes Reese, and had a passion for all things outdoors. She could be found planting, gardening, and decorating her yard all year long. Linda was also a member at the United Methodist Church where she served as Sunday School teacher and was involved in a Women’s Group to provide resources for the local community.

Linda has touched the lives of so many family members, friends, students, and acquaintances throughout her life. She will be deeply missed and will live on in our lives with the multitude of memories we all carry of her.

There will be more details to come of the Celebration of Life in the spring in Boone, NC where we can all join together to celebrate and honor this incredible woman. 

In lieu of flowers, we have listed several organizations that are providingHurricane Helene relief efforts in the mountains and her beautiful hometown of Swannanoa, NC.

Please share your memories of Linda by “Leaving a tribute” below.