Linda L. Folks, 78, of Galena, IL, was called home by the Lord Jesus on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, passing peacefully in her home. A funeral mass will be held at 11 AM on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Galena where friends may call from 9 AM until the time of the mass. The burial will take place in the church cemetery. Linda was born on March 15, 1947, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Harold and Dorothy (Koster) Ley. She attended Wahlert and Senior High Schools in Dubuque, IA, and later studied cosmetology in the Dubuque area. Linda also completed two years of college in Dubuque, Iowa. On May 13, 1967, Linda was united in marriage to Gaylon G. Folks at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque. She worked as a teaching assistant with the Galena School District for 30 years, retiring in 2010. Known for her kind and generous heart, Linda often purchased gifts for less fortunate children she encountered and donated to various charitable organizations. During the summer months, when she wasn’t working at the school, Linda loved to travel with Gaylon, Casey, and Jenny to numerous places across the country, including Walt Disney World, Washington, DC, Hershey, Pennsylvania, and the Rocky Mountains. In her childhood, she enjoyed outdoor events and day trips with her parents. As an adult, Linda spent many years helping her father, Harold, care for her mother, Dorothy, who suffered from multiple sclerosis. She and her late daughter Jenny viewed shopping as an Olympic event and cherished their time browsing through local shops together. Linda was an avid reader, enjoying all sorts of literature, including mysteries, short stories, biographies, and travel books. In her retirement, she continued her travel adventures with family and friends, visiting places such as Hawaii, New York City, and Chicago. Linda will be dearly missed by her family and friends. She always encouraged her children, both at home and at school, to be true to their hearts, to try their best, and to believe in themselves. Linda cherished her special relationship with her granddaughter, Kayleigh. The two spent many hours together reading, coloring, drawing, and simply having fun. Nana played an instrumental role in helping Kayleigh attend swimming lessons, karate lessons, and regularly visit the bookstore. Their bond will never fade. She is survived by her husband, Gaylon Folks, of Galena; her son, Casey; daughter-in-law, Jennifer Cilino-Folks; granddaughter, Kayleigh Gayle Folks; and her honorary granddaughter, Natalie Ricke. She was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter Jenny, and her aunt and uncle, Mary and Vincent Kirpes. Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque. The family would like to express their gratitude to the 5th-floor nursing staff of Finley Hospital and Hospice of Dubuque, especially RN Jessica, for the exceptional care provided to Linda in her final weeks.
Linda L. Folks
Words can’t express how truly sorry we are for the loss of Linda. She was in my village and a part of my family and life. She was a wonderful aid and mother to my son Wesley when he was very young. She is one of the reasons Wes is where he is today. She helped me get him there. Wesley adored her. He looked forward to spending the day with her. She was sweet, patient, and kind to my son during his challenging years with his Autism. When he wasn’t in school, he’d see her in church and had to go give her a hug. He loved her. I’ll be forever indebted to her.
With heartfelt sympathy to Gaylon and family. May all your great memories give you peace and help you through this difficult time. Keeping all of you in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless all of you.. With my deepest sympathy,
Dianne Paxton
Gaylon and family,
I really never new your wife and mother very well but I have known your father, Gaylon, since kindergarten I have the picture with him and I in 1949 kindergarten picture with your grandmother, Edna, in the back ground leaning against the doorway with your young sister beside her. Your young sister is taking in everything that was happening as someone snapped the pictuure. I hope I figured this correctly – 76 yrs ago!! I will try to make to the funeral and bring picture I am sorry for your loss but keep remembering the good times and all the love you shared with each other.
with sincere sympathy.
Fran Rosenthal
So very sorry for your loss Gaylon and Casey and family , Linda was the sweetest caring wonderful lady and so blessed to be such a part of her and Jennys lives ! She was always so dear to me and Gaylon you were the sweetest most caring husband!🩷🙏
Deb Kaiser
My deepest sympathies to your family. Linda was an extraordinary lady and will be missed by many. I know she and my mom spent many a good time at school. They are in heaven having laughs and reconnecting.
Rose Wasson
On behalf of Larry and Jackie Richardson we send our condolences
Larry Richardson
I am so sorry for your loss. May all the wonderful memories you hold in your heart help as you face the days ahead. May she rest in peace.
Chris Wasson
We will always remember Linda for her warmth and kindness. Sending love to the Folks family.
Love, Jeff and Jodi Zeal
Sorry to hear of Linda’s passing, Gaylon. I enjoyed working with you. I share stories about working with you from time to time.
Henry Fassbinder