Linda Darlene Ryman

The staff of Heishman Funeral Home/Valley Funeral Service sends condolences to the family of Ms. Linda Darlene Ryman. Linda Darlene Ryman, 72, of Mt. Jackson, Virginia, passed away on September 17, 2025, at her birthplace, Rockingham Memorial Hospital. Born on March 9, 1953, Linda was the cherished daughter of Alvin W. Ryman and Verna S. Ryman both of whom preceded her in death, as did her brother Paul J. Ryman. She is survived by her brother Michael W. Ryman and his wife Yvonne L. Ryman, their children and significant others, Brandon F. Ryman and wife Cristy V. Ryman, Shana L. Ryman and fiancé Merida M. Marston; sister-in-law and widow of Paul J. Ryman, Laura E. Ryman; nieces and nephew Hannah R. Ryman, Nicholas J. Ryman, and Sarah R. Ryman; and her only son William F. Mowery and his wife, children, and grandchildren, Angelia G. Mowery, Kristina D. Johnson and husband Tyler J. Johnson, Sophia E. Cordell, Franklin J. Johnson, Audrey J. Johnson, William H.W. Mowery, and Peyton Harless. A proud 1971 graduate of Stonewall Jackson High School, Linda’s life was marked by her passionate, hardworking, loving, and generous spirit. Linda shined a light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her journey on this earth was marked by love, compassion, and an unwavering faith in God. Linda found solace and community at St. Jacobs Lutheran Church where she could often be found down in the basement assisting in the preparation of the food. Those who knew Linda will remember her for her baked goods and love of animals. With Linda around, no animal would ever be left hungry or scared. Kristina D. Johnson, granddaughter of Linda, “My grandmother was a superhero, and I know many may say the same about theirs, but mind really was. She would give the shirt off her back to anyone in need, often putting others before herself. This woman did it all, from farming to baking, to raising a son, to caring for her brothers and anyone in need. To say my grandmother loved animals is an understatement. She didn’t care what the animal was; a cat, dog, horse, goat, skunk, or possum, if that animal needed help, she was there. To be honest, the secret of whether she liked humans or animals more will never be known, but what I do know is that if you had the honor to be loved by her, you would know that that love was fierce. The world may have lost her physically, but her memory has been engrained into our souls and for that I am forever grateful.” “Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawaken.” – Anatole France In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to Still Meadows Enrichment Center and Camp at 11992 Hollar School Rd Linville, Virginia 22834. It was Linda’s wishes to not have a service; however, November 23, 2025, during church service at St. Jacobs Lutheran Church at 15226 Senedo Rd, Edinburg, VA 22824, her spirit and memory will be honored as a part of Sunday service. Online condolences may be left at www.valleyfs.com Arrangements by Heishman Funeral Home Inc., Valley Funeral Service Branch, Edinburg.

Linda Darlene Ryman

March 9, 1953 - September 17, 2025