Linda Kay Gillenwater Metz, 60, Shawnee, KS, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Sunday, September 3, after a brief battle with ALS.

Linda was the daughter of Mary K. Gillenwater Latteman and the late Robert L. Gillenwater.  She graduated from Center High School in 1975 where she participated in volleyball, track and field and band.  She attended the University of Missouri-Columbia, where she marched with Marching Mizzou, and then finished her college degree at UMKC, graduating with a degree in education.

Linda worked for several local companies in administrative and computer technology positions.  She then continued her passion for education by teaching both business and computers at local college institutions.  In her last position as a Dean, she helped build a Veterinary Technology department from the ground up.

She dedicated her life to family, music and education.  Her nieces and nephews will always remember her presence at their activities, including band competitions, ball games, performances, and awards ceremonies of all kinds.  Music was also her lifelong passion, whether it was singing in or conducting choirs of all ages, playing the piano, or ringing handbells.  She was an avid reader and could teach anyone how to do anything.  Her deep and genuine caring for others and never ending positive attitude were gifts to all who knew and loved her.

Visitation and Services

A visitation will be held Saturday, September 9, at 10:00 a.m. with a memorial service following at 11:00 a.m. at Holmeswood Baptist Church, 9700 Holmes, Kansas City, Missouri 64131.

Memorial Contributions

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Holmeswood Baptist Church in her name.