Linda Bayne Inman McLester, a devoted homemaker and cherished member of her community, passed away on May 19, 2026, at Scotia Village, Urban House in Laurinburg, North Carolina.

Born on September 16, 1937, in Robeson County, NC, Linda's life was distinguished by her dedication to family, faith, and service.

A proud graduate of Lumberton High School and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Linda was propelled by a genuine and energetic desire to help others. She undertook extensive volunteer work and provided faith-guided leadership within the First Presbyterian Church in Rockingham, NC, where she served as an elder, deacon, choir member, Sunday School teacher, and president of the Women of the Church. She was also dedicated to the North Carolina Presbytery and for many years traveled with a group from her church to Montreat. Her desire to serve also extended to the Board of Scotia Village, where she contributed to the well-being of that community with compassionate leadership and a generous spirit.

Linda's passions, however, extended far beyond academics and service. She embraced both active pursuits and creative pastimes with joy and enthusiasm. She loved to laugh and sing, walk on the beach, hike in the mountains, play games, eat chocolate, needlepoint, bake, read, and travel. A generous and mischievous friend, Linda threw elaborate surprise parties for her friends' "big" birthdays. And she hosted delicious tailgating gatherings at NC State home football games for years.

Most especially, she adored her family's bones. Her happiest times were those spent with her children and grandchildren -- playing, laughing, sharing stories, teaching, listening. She was genuinely interested in their lives and hopes and dreams, and she wanted for them every happiness.

Linda was predeceased by her beloved husband of 63 years, James Robert McLester, her daughter Bayne McLester, her parents Ralph Bain and Sarah Ethel Andrews Inman, and her sisters Pattie Carol Hunt and Shirley Ammons. She is survived by her sons Malcolm McLester (and his wife Laura) and Ralph McLester (and his wife Caroline); her grandchildren Andrew McLester (and Kacey), Amanda Bates (and Gabriel), Grayson McLester, and Kel McLester (and Gabrielle); as well as her great-grandchildren Marley McLester and Maddie McLester.

Linda's enduring spirit and the love she shared will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends and warmly remembered as a guiding light, whose affection and joyful nature so enriched their lives.

A memorial service to honor Linda’s life will take place on May 30, 2026, at 1:00 pm at the First Presbyterian Church, located at 904 Fayetteville Road, Rockingham, NC 28379. A visitation will follow on from 1:45 pm to 2:45 pm in the fellowship hall of First Presbyterian Church.

Memorials may be made to Richmond County Hospice, 1119 US Hwy 1 N, Rockingham, NC 28379 or to First Presbyterian Church, 904 Fayetteville Road, Rockingham, NC 28379 for the New Shoes for Christmas fund.