Linda Kay (Mashburn) Nicholas, 74, was born on July 26, 1952, in Hugo, Oklahoma, the daughter of Ottis Mashburn and Ruth (Baggett) Mashburn. She was preceded in death by her parents; beloved husband of 57 years, Barney DeWayne Nicholas and brothers, Howard Mashburn, Joel Mashburn and John Mashburn.

Linda was a lifelong resident of Choctaw County and was a graduate of Hugo High School, Class of 1970. She married the love of her life, Barney DeWayne Nicholas, on August 15, 1969, in Hugo, Oklahoma, during her senior year of high school. After graduating, Linda worked various jobs throughout her life, all of which involved serving her community and caring for others. Linda started by babysitting children, a role she loved so much that she even made her own baby food. Later, she worked at Hugo Walmart as a sales associate and fulfilled multiple roles at Hugo Public Schools, including the role of secretary. She eventually retired from Hugo Public Schools after many years of dedication. Her years of service left a lasting impression on coworkers, students, and the community she supported.

Linda was a woman who found joy in the everyday beauty of life. She loved sitting out on her front porch daily and watching the hummingbirds.  Her grandkids knew how much she enjoyed seeing those birds, and they made sure her feeders were always full. Linda loved her family deeply, and she will be remembered for the love she gave, the care she showed, and the many ways she made life brighter for those around her.

Linda is survived by her sons, Joseph Nicholas and wife, Anna of Spencerville, OK and Troy Nicholas and wife, Tammi of Mustang, OK; granddaughters, Bruklyn Thompson, Kimberly Cantrell, Jonie Nicholas and husband, Evan Lopez, and Emily Schmasow and husband, Ethan; grandsons, Wesley Nicholas and wife, Laurie and Anthony Nicholas and wife, Rebecca; and 6 great grandchildren with one on the way; along with a host of nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.