Linda Lou Ray Donaldson

May 19, 1940 - January 26, 2021

Linda Lou Ray Donaldson passed away peacefully on January 26, 2021 after a long battle with dementia. She was born to Calvin and Beulah Ray on May 19, 1940 in Asheville, NC. After graduating from Enka High School, she attended Warren Wilson Junior College followed by the University of Tennessee where she received her degree in psychology. Her marriage to Arthur J. Donaldson secured her roots in Salisbury. Linda pursued a career in law enforcement as a probation/parole officer and retired as a magistrate in Rowan County. Through the years, many past probationers and their families would share appreciation for the tremendous impact Linda had on their lives through her coaching and empathy. Linda was an avid animal lover; she grew up showing and jumping horses competitively which became a lifelong passion. She also adored dogs, having an affinity for St. Bernards, and holding special places in her heart for Nana and Barry. But most of all, Linda passionately loved and cared for her children and grandchildren. Always ready to provide sound advice and encouragement, Linda stood resolute for her family’s goals and interests. She instilled within her family a sense of grace, humility, and kindness toward others. She lived her life by the Golden Rule and her warm love and embrace will be deeply missed. Linda is survived by her four children, Sheelagh of Salisbury, Shannon of Portland Oregon, Sean and wife Sally of Austin Texas, and Seamus and wife Traci of Salisbury, and three grandchildren (Colin, Kate, and Mary Smith). Linda’s parents and brother, Bob Ray, preceded her in death. Special thanks to all the medical providers and especially those at The Laurels of Salisbury for their care and dedication to Linda. A funeral Mass, celebrated by Father John Eckert, is scheduled for 1:00pm on Saturday January 30, 2021 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Salisbury, NC with burial to follow in the church cemetery. Due to COVID-19 concerns, her funeral will be with family and close friends only. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Faithful Friends Animal Sanctuary send to Friends of Rowan, PO Box 262, Salisbury, NC 28145-0262 with Faithful Friends in the memo for the donation to be matched or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1905. Summersett Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.summersettfuneralhome.com.