Linda Sue Westbrook

Linda Sue Westbrook passed away in her home Tuesday, September 23, 2025.

Born February 13, 1949, Linda’s birth certificate lists Williston, ND, as her birthplace. Her family lived in Culbertson, MT, but the nearest hospital was in Williston. Linda always joked that she was embarrassed to be a Nordak. (No offense to North Dakotans.)

Linda was 76 years old. That is approximately 20 more birthdays than her pulmonologist surmised she would celebrate. Linda was a strong, strong person.

Linda is survived by her husband, Philip, her children, David and Danielle, her grandchildren, Jesika and Sam, and her 5 siblings, Boyd, Curt Jo, Mark, Mike, and her favorite “seestor,” Peggy.

Love based in selflessness, charitable, tough, strong-willed, an incredible work ethic, and the confidence to do whatever she put her capable mind to— these traits defined Linda. She spent her life lifting others up to reach their full potentials. Linda reached out to neighbors and strangers in need with a helping hand and kind heart.

Children loved Linda because she genuinely showed them her love. And they respected her authority. As a visitor to her grandson's 2nd grade class, Linda stood in the middle of the 35 out-of-control students, raised her index finger in the air, and quietly waited. The children quieted, some sat down, and Linda asked, “Do you know what this means?” “What?” the children asked. “First time,” Linda replied. “Always do what I say or ask the first time.” They all sat and became quiet. The teacher was incredibly grateful.

Linda honed her work skills incredibly early when, at the age of 12, she became an A&W carhop to help support her family as they struggled to make ends meet. Linda went to work for the State of Washington in the late 80’s and very quickly established herself as an in-demand employee, landing at the very top of the State hiring lists. Linda shone brightest as a clerk and evidence expert for the Washington Attorney General’s Office. The five attorneys she worked for would always seek her out to practice their arguments and examinations, trusting her uncanny instincts and insight.

In 1971, Linda met Phil at The Kafe restaurant (that is the correct spelling) in Martha’s Vineyard. They were both working summer jobs, Phil as a dishwasher, Linda as bookkeeper and then, after just two weeks, the restaurant manager. At the end their shift on August 11, 1971, Linda asked a favor of Phil. There were four gentlemen in the lounge who were each interested in dating Linda, and it was not reciprocal on her part. She asked if Phil would just walk her out the door of the restaurant to save her the hassle of saying “no” four times. Phil put away the dishes, dried his hands, and gave her his arm as they sauntered to the exit. Ten days later, on August 21, 1971, Linda married Phil in Edgartown, MA.

August 21, 2025 marked Phil and Linda’s 54th anniversary. He was with her in her final moments. Of course, as long as those who knew her are alive, her moments will never truly be final. There is no memorial planned or charity to donate to. Linda was a wonderful gardener. She loved Spring and all the new life it birthed. So, plant a flower for Linda. And smile when it blooms.

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