Linda Thornton

Linda Lee Thornton (née Zandstra), age 86, died peacefully on April 10, 2025, at Rose Garden Assisted Living in Grandville, Michigan. She leaves a lasting legacy of faith in God and service to others. Linda trusted Jesus Christ as her Savior at an early age and humbly served Him her whole life.

Born on September 5, 1938, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, she graduated from South High School in 1956 and the Practical Nursing Division of Grand Rapids Junior College in 1957. In January 1958, she earned her LPN from the State of Michigan Board of Nursing. 

Linda began her nursing career at Butterworth Hospital and continued in family practice.  Beyond nursing, Linda had a remarkable talent for sales. She successfully sold World Book Encyclopedias for many years and later worked as a representative for Clairol.

Linda volunteered for many years with the Sallie Bender Guild at Butterworth Hospital Gift Shop and also at Ronald McDonald House Charities West Michigan. Her genuine interest in others was evident in every interaction. She was always ready with a good story, advice, and Biblical truth. 

Linda served the Lord through the ministries of both Calvary Baptist Church and Grace Bible Church as a Sunday school teacher, choir member, program director, mission committee member, faithful prayer warrior, and provider of countless meals for church events and individuals. She served 30 years with Garments of Praise and helped start the Backpack Buddies ministry at Grace Bible Church. 

A gifted hostess, Linda’s favorite place was in the kitchen. Her home was known for its warm hospitality where everyone felt welcome around her table—whether for a hearty meal, a slice of homemade pie, or a plateful of cookies! 

She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Jayne (Craig) Bartrand; son, Jeffrey (Patricia) Thornton; grandchildren, Heath Thornton, Audra (Tyler) Bandstra, and Jared Thornton; sister, Bernice VanderWoude; brother, Richard (Lou) Zandstra; sisters-in-law, Nancy Thornton and Pat Zandstra; nieces and nephews, friends, and many others whose lives were influenced by her generosity and grace.

Linda was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jerry in December 1995; and siblings, Stuart (Jean), Marian (Simon), Darlene (Karl), Stella (Earl), Casey, and Julia (Dabner).

A Celebration of Life honoring Linda will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW with Pastor Doug Wood officiating. Relatives and friends may visit with the family on Friday, May 16 from 7-9 pm at the funeral home. 

Special gratitude to the care staff of Rose Garden Assisted Living and Emmanuel Hospice for their personal, loving attention to Linda. Memorial gifts are also appreciated to David's House Ministries.