Tributes

In celebrating the life of Linda Ann Little, we fondly remember a woman who brought light and warmth to all who knew her. Born on February 29, 1952, in Suffolk, VA, to the late Sylvester and Alease Mayfield. Linda departed this life on January 21, 2024, at the Inova Medical Center in Fairfax, VA, after a brief illness. Linda’s journey began in Nansemond County Schools, leading her to graduate from John F. Kennedy High School. Her professional path led her to the U.S. Department of Education in 1979, where she dedicated 31 years of stellar service before retiring in 2011. Linda embraced retirement with open arms, savoring the freedom and flexibility of contractor positions, relishing the joy of working when she wanted and resting when she pleased. In 1972, Linda married Stefan “Donnie” Little. From this union Letitia “Tish” Michelle, the light of Linda’s life, was born. Together, Linda and Tish embarked on countless adventures, exploring the world together. Though Tish was Linda’s primary travel companion, Linda also ventured across the globe with friends, Tish’s Sorors, and various family members, creating cherished memories along the way. Notable among these was the cross-country train trip to Los Angeles with her sister Connie. Linda found joy in the simple pleasures of life, enjoying leisurely walks and pampering her beloved puppy, Buffy. Her family was the cornerstone of her world, and she radiated love, encouragement, and unwavering support to all. She checked on her family weekly by phone and text and attended many family functions and celebrations. Linda was a member of the New Hope Church of God in Waldorf, MD, where she served as an usher and a dedicated member. As a mother, Linda was not only attentive but also fiercely protective of Tish. There was no limit to the lengths she would go for her daughter, embracing every aspect of Tish’s life with love and enthusiasm. Linda became a beloved friend to many, immersing herself in Tish’s sorority activities and forming lasting bonds with her friends and Sorors. In her later years, Linda’s sense of exploration knew no bounds, as she embraced adventure with zest, from swimming with dolphins to riding ATVs and even trying her hand at Jamaican bobsledding. Linda leaves behind a legacy of love, cherished by her devoted daughter Tish and loyal companion Buffy. She is preceded in death by six of her eleven siblings, Sylvester Jr., Shirley, Connell, Ella Mae (Carroll), Pernell, and Callandus. Linda is remembered with love by her remaining brothers and sisters, Earl, Daniel (Glenda), Everne, Robert, and Vivian, as well as a multitude of nieces, nephews, and cousins and her lifelong friends Delores and Johnella. Though Linda did not have other children or grandchildren, she showered Nikki, Demetrius, Ariana, Haleigh, Knickolas, and Olivia with a love so deep it felt as if they were her own. Family and friends will gather on Friday, February 2, 2024 at 9:00am until time of service at 11:00am, at New Hope Church of God, 4200 Old Washington Road, Waldorf, MD 20602. Interment will follow the service at Trinity Memorial Gardens in Waldorf, Maryland.

Tributes

Linda Ann Little

February 29, 1952 - January 21, 2024