Linda Curless

Linda Curless, 72, of Mt. Vernon, Missouri, passed away on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at her residence, surrounded by her family.

Linda was born on August 13, 1953, in Canton, Illinois. Known for her ambition and love of a good prank, she lived a life defined by resilience and by her faith.

She is survived by her children, Jessicca Oehlschlager (Patrick), Lettie Kendall (Jared), and Danny Jones Jr. (Leecie); 14 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; her brother, Harley Curless (Kay); and several nieces and nephews, including her beloved Rebecca Carlson.

Passionate about teaching, Linda obtained her Master’s in Education, dedicating a large portion of her life to educating and inspiring students.

Linda had a servant’s heart and found great joy in ministry. While her children were young, she dedicated her summers to volunteering at church camp and Vacation Bible School, and she especially loved directing children’s choir performances. In her later years, she deeply treasured her growing faith and the cherished friendships she found at Woodland Hills Family Church in Branson, Missouri.

Of all her many accomplishments, Linda considered her children, grandchildren, and growing number of great-grandchildren to be her greatest achievements. She found joy in the simple acts of love—cooking incredible meals, spoiling them with favorite treats, and ensuring every wish list came true. A constant presence in their lives, she took immense pride in attending every birthday, graduation, and wedding. Linda often found her greatest happiness in simply listening to her family interact and laugh together. She leaves behind a legacy of resilience, teaching her loved ones to never give up regardless of life’s challenges. Though she faced many years of pain, she bravely continued to show up for her family and friends with unwavering devotion. She will be deeply missed.

Honoring Linda’s wishes, her family will hold a private Celebration of Life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to:

The Children’s Center of Southwest Missouri, 1029 E. 7th Street, Joplin, MO 64801

Arrangements have been entrusted to Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery & Crematory in Joplin, MO