Linda Bookout Gaddis passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on August 15, 2025.  Linda was born on September 21, 1941 in Gastonia, NC, to the late Russell David and Dorothy Hendrix Bookout.  She was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Johnnie Marshall Gaddis Jr.

Mrs. Gaddis was a 1959 graduate of Frank Ashley High School where she was Homecoming Queen.  She was a devoted homemaker and mother, spending countless hours on ball fields and in gyms cheering on her children, and volunteering in their schools.  She attended Flint Groves Baptist Church where she began the puppet ministry that so many children participated in and loved.  She was instrumental in the success of Life Song Ministry for Single Moms, volunteered with the Home Care Ministry, and served on the Hospitality Committee at Flint Groves, along with years of other volunteer opportunities in the church and community.  She also began the B.A.G Ministry (Blessings Are in Giving) at the former Bethlehem Baptist Church.

She loved to create and decorate for holidays and events, making every detail so special.  She loved to shop, carefully choosing the perfect gifts and accessories for whatever the occasion.

Mrs. Gaddis had a deep faith that was fostered by her mother and wonderful congregations of people who led by the example of Christ-like love.  Her faith provided strength so many times throughout her life but especially during her battle with breast cancer.  

She is survived by son David Gaddis and wife Meredith; son Martin Gaddis and wife Shanna: daughter Angie Gaddis Edwards; grandchildren Ben Gaddis and wife Lourdes; Will Gaddis; Harrison Gaddis and wife Natsumi; Jake Edwards; Anna Edwards; Abriel Gaddis; Khloe Gaddis; great-granddaughters Reyes and Atenea Gaddis; sister Jan Bookout Witherspoon; sisters-in-law Phyllis Gaddis Barnes and Patricia Gaddis Falls; brother-in-law Melvin Gaddis; and numerous nieces and nephews.  

The family wishes to thank the numerous doctors who have cared for Linda throughout her life, especially this past year after her cancer diagnosis.  We would also like to thank Carolina Caring Hospice and Palliative Care, and Dawn, Addy, and Courtney of Harmony Home Care Services for their loving and compassionate care over the last months.  

A service of celebration  will be held at Flint Groves Baptist Church on Sunday, August 24 at 4:00pm in the sanctuary.  The family will receive friends afterwards in the fellowship hall where we will share stories and memories of Linda’s life.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Woman in Pink, 315 E. Second Avenue, Gastonia NC 28054.