Linda Faye Butinski, formerly Linda Thies, was born in California on July 28, 1963, to Wanda and Jerry Thies. She passed away suddenly on February 12, 2026, in Freeport, Illinois, at the age of 63. She was discovered by her friend and caretaker, Debra Rampenthal. Linda was a passionate, spiritual, and eccentric woman whose life was shaped by both profound hardship and deep compassion. As a survivor of abuse and someone who faced her own struggles with addiction, she developed an unwavering commitment to those who felt unseen, unheard, or forgotten. Her lived experiences fueled her passions and drove her dedication to advocating for the underdogs of society. Linda studied religion and spirituality and carried those teachings into her daily life through service to others. She actively supported and volunteered with fundraisers, local donation drives, and community organizations across Illinois and Oklahoma. Her advocacy included women's rights, LGBTQ+ communities, Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous, abuse prevention and survivor support groups, HIV/AIDS awareness, mental health advocacy, and assistance for those facing poverty and instability. She attended college in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and worked various jobs throughout her journey, including serving for several years as a counselor at a rehabilitation clinic in Oklahoma, where she offered guidance, understanding, and hope to others walking paths similar to her own. Linda carried an unmistakable energy that filled every room she entered, paired with a smile capable of cutting through even the darkest moments. A true free spirit, she danced beneath the moon as if no one were watching and fearlessly spoke up for herself and those she loved. She also held deep respect for Native American heritage and actively supported cultural events and functions within local Oklahoma communities. Linda did not seek wealth or status. She believed all people were equal and found her greatest joy in meaningful connections with individuals from all walks of life, wherever her travels took her.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, James Butinski, and her mother, Wanda Thies whom she cared for deeply.

She is survived by her sister, Star Thies; her brother, Timothy Thies; and her two daughters, Naomi Cook and Kaylynne Drucejones

Linda's soul is now free from life's obstacles, flying among the birds and blooming with each spring flower.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday February 28, 2026 at 1:30 PM, at Kingdom Hall Of Jehovah's Witnesses in Freeport, IL.