Linda Carl Cullen, daughter of the late Robert and Janet Bair, died January 14 after a long illness.
Born August 31, 1948, Linda was a graduate of Hempfield High School and Millersville University. She spent most of her career teaching English as a second language (ESL) to adult refugees and immigrants. Her students have included people from China, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Eastern Europe, and many from Latin America. She recently received a lifetime achievement award from the Pennsylvania Association of Adult and Continuing Education (PAACE) for her dedication to adult education.
She began her work with refugees at Migration and Refugee Services of Catholic Charities, Harrisburg, continued with the Literacy Council of Lancaster and Lebanon counties, and tutored students privately. She also trained ESL teachers throughout the state.
Linda served as director of RSVP, the senior volunteer program of Lutheran Social Services of Lancaster and Lebanon counties for several years. An active member of the First United Methodist Church of Lancaster, she served on several committees. Additionally, she developed and managed The Party Place, a division of the former Ace Rents, Lancaster. She planned weddings, parties and numerous events for individuals and corporations.
Linda will be remembered for her countless acts of caring and compassion for those in need. She was the life of the party, loved to embellish a good story and share a good laugh. She and her husband devoted many years to enjoying four Golden Retrievers, her favorite breed.
Survivors include: husband Paul, and children Dustin Carl (Victoria), Ryan Carl, Christin Herman, and stepdaughters Elizabeth Cullen, MD, all of Lancaster; Monica Leiter Esq. (Eric), of Willison Park, NY; and brother, Robert Bair (Alisa) of Towson, Md.
Surviving grandchildren include: Tyler Hill, Ciara Phillips (Tony Ruof), Olivia Herman, Christopher Carl, Andrew and Liam Leiter; and great-grandchildren Ryland and Zadan Ruof.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service at First United Methodist Church, 29 E. Walnut St., Lancaster, PA 17602 on Saturday January 21, 2023 at 11:00 AM. An informal visitation will follow the service. Burial will be in Conestoga Memorial Park at the convenience of the family.
People may send a memorial in Linda’s name to The Healing Journey, c/o Lancaster Cancer Center, 703 Lampeter Road, Lancaster, PA 17602, or to the Literacy Council, 407 Lafayette St., Lancaster, PA 17603. To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit: www.DeBordSnyder.com
Rodger/Nancy Myers says
The fondest memories of this sweet, witty, talented, kind lady. The Zion musicals stand out in my mind. Of course her dear children were in my 5 yr old SS class. Linda was so her mother and dad. Always willing to help and care for others.
Our deepest sympathies to Rob, Alisa and family.
Tamara Favier says
Dear Linda wherever you are I just want to said thanks for all your help and support. Rest in peace . I never forget all the good things that you did to teach me English as a second language. You are a dedicated compassionate and lovely woman. You will stay alive in my heart . Blessing
Beth and Mark Christman says
Paul, our thoughts are with you and your family. Linda was very brave, and we know your love and support made her passing easier. We wish you peace, comfort and lots of love during this time of sorrow.
Judy Fulton says
Rufus and I want you to know our warmest thoughts are with your entire family. We always enjoyed Linda’s smile, laugh and positive attitude!!!! It was a pleasure and honor to be her cousin.
With much love, Judy Farmer Fulton
David Spracher says
I would like to extend my condolences to Linda’s family and friends.
Bobbi Hurst says
A shining star and soaring spirit – Linda was the BEST OF THE BEST – educator, co-worker and friend. So grateful for the laughter and camaraderie we shared at LCLL. Paul, my heartfelt sympathy is with you and your family. Lovingly, Bobbi
Mindy DeGreen says
Dear Linda,
The support group from the Healing Journey Foundation and I will miss you terribly. We loved your amazing smile and roar of laughter. Thank you for your support, love and kindness. We will think of you always. We were blessed to have you as part of the support group.
Our deepest sympathies to Paul and your family. Thank you for sharing Linda with us.
Elizabeth Ruszczyk says
We are so sorry to hear about the passing of Linda. I will always remember how friendly and happy Linda was whenever we were together. Much love from the Elizabeth (Long), Tony, Sophia, Olivia and Nicholas Ruszczyk
Amanda Kilpatrick says
Such an incredible women and a tremendous loss. There are some people who can truly just light up a room, make you feel comfortable anywhere and bring joy to anything they do & that was without a doubt Aunt Linda. I am better for knowing her and lucky to have gotten to spend time with her. I learned all my guest hosting tricks from her and I truly just loved chatting and laughing with her . My heart felt condolences for the entire family , you all are in my thoughts and prayers.