Linda Whittington Ralph

Linda Whittington Ralph, 86, of Lutherville, Maryland, passed away March 26, 2024. She was the daughter of the late Joseph Samuel Whittington, Jr. and Mabelle Rose Freeman. Linda was preceded in death by her husband, John Thomas Ralph; sisters, Nancy Whittington Jacobsen and Joan Whittington Gatewood.

She is survived by her daughter Jennifer Lin Peavey, son-in-law Christopher Daniel Peavey and granddaughter Norah Grace Peavey (who called her “Mimma”) of Portland, Maine, nephews Paul Jacobsen (Betsy), Charles Gatewood (Emily) and nieces Joanna Watson (Buster), and Eleanor Gatewood (Royce) and the late Amy L. St.Jean.

Linda was born in Tarrytown, New York, and spent a happy and memorable childhood playing on the cliffs near the Hudson River, riding her bike, exploring and enjoying vast amounts of freedom.

She graduated from University of Pennsylvania with a degree in English and continued her lifelong passion for reading and writing in all its forms. Her art medium of choice was a well-crafted story and she was most happy with a cup of coffee and a good book or discussions with friends about psychology or spirituality. She loved watching movies and detective shows in the evening, with a well-fed cat next to her.

She was a devoted member of AA, where she had 40 years of sobriety and she was part of a rich community that she adored. Her friends gave her much joy and strength and she was known as a listener, a sage advisor as well as someone who did not judge people for their behavior. She was going to five meetings a week even during the last year of her life. Hearing the stories of others gave her enthusiasm and inspiration.

She had 45 years of marriage to her husband Tom. They enjoyed coffee on the sunny deck in Lutherville, Maryland surrounded by flowers, birds, and chipmunks that she hand-fed. She was a devoted mother to Jen, who she doted on from the moment she was born. They shared a strong bond, and have great memories of trips to Europe together, long phone conversations, and lots of laughs. Among many things, she taught Jen the importance of a strong community of friends. She looked forward to the annual trips to Bethany Beach with Tom, Jen, Chris and Norah.

Linda hosted many Saturday dinner and game nights at her house for her sister Joan and niece Eleanor and family friend John. She was a terrific gift giver and loved to see others enjoy themselves with food, conversation, games and laughter.

She was particularly sensitive to the suffering of others, especially of animals. She was frequently rescuing a bird or a rabbit and nursing it back to health.

Linda was the last one of a generation and her wisdom, humor and kindness were great blessings to many. She will be deeply missed.