Linda Susan Swims (nee Kelley), age 68 of Shelbyville, TN passed away on Saturday, March 18, 2023.

She was born on January 2, 1955 in Detroit, MI. but spent more of her adult life in Chicago, IL.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Stacey Belcher Kelley; husband, Thomas L. Swims; son-in-law, Garry A. Kerley; and 1 brother.

She is survived by her daughters, Michelle (Jorge) Figuerola; Miriam Kerley; grandchildren, Grace Figuerola; Faith Figuerola; 1 brother; 2 sisters; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Linda passed away peacefully surrounded by her family after a short battle with cancer. She grew up in her beloved Kentucky where she often loved to visit. Country music was one of her favorite things, besides going to concerts and just having fun. If there was a George Jones song on, you could believe it was cranked up as loud as the radio would go. Linda loved life and would help anyone who needed help.

As a young teen, her family moved to Chicago, IL where work was more plentiful. One of her first jobs was working at Richie’s Italian Beef stand where she met the love of her life, Tommy. After they were married in 1972, they began a family of their own and brought two daughters into the world. As time went on, Linda worked at Brach’s Candy Company as a candy inspector. After a time at the candy factory, she found herself working in logistics at O’Hare Airport in Chicago. Eventually, she would retire and become a grandmother of twin girls who she helped take care of. The twins were her pride and joy and loved them more than life.

Linda was raised with a strong faith and belief in Jesus. Church was one of the most important aspects of her life and she prided herself on telling people about Jesus and his love. In her last hours, she was praising and worshipping Him as she transitioned into eternity and into His presence.

In her own words, she often said to her granddaughters, “I love you bigger than the world.” In their words today, they love you forever bigger than the world.

Psalms 116:15

Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.