Linda Joyce Kenney, 80, of McPherson, Kansas, peacefully entered the presence of her Savior on Monday, January 5, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her loving husband and daughter. Cancer won the battle for her body, but God won the war for her soul.
She was born December 6, 1945, in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, the daughter of Albert A. and Helner Leona (McCalla) Kimball. Linda cherished her childhood years in Steamboat Springs, where many of her fondest memories were formed. Following her high school graduation from Central Academy in 1963, she earned her associate degree from Central College in McPherson, Kansas, and later, in 1967, received her Bachelor of Science degree from Southern Nazarene University in Bethany, Oklahoma.
Linda’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She gave her heart to Jesus as a small child and fully surrendered her life to Him as a sophomore in high school. She lived daily by her favorite reminders to “Trust Jesus” and to know that “God is in control.” Her life was a testimony of quiet faithfulness, prayer, and trust in the Lord.
On June 28, 1969, Linda was united in marriage to Laurel H. Kenney, Jr., in Hutchinson, Kansas. Together they shared 56 years of marriage, grounded in faith and love, and were blessed with a daughter, Laura.
Linda was a devoted member of the McPherson Free Methodist Church, where she faithfully served the Lord through many roles. She participated on numerous church service committees, served as a conference delegate, and was a member of the pastor’s cabinet. Her love for children and worship was evident through her sponsorship of the McPherson Arts Council Children’s Choir.
Linda also supported her husband’s photography career, working alongside him as photo studio manager at Kenney Photography and assisting him as he achieved his Master of Photography. She was a member of professional photography organizations, including GWPPA, KPPA, and HOA.
A lifelong servant, Linda worked as a teacher and later as a paraprofessional, where she had the special joy of working side by side with her daughter, Laura. Their relationship was exceptionally close, and they shared not only a mother-daughter bond, but a deep friendship.
Linda was known for her gentle spirit, her ability to listen, and her caring, loving heart. She enjoyed yard work, crafts, sewing, and caring for others. She also dearly loved her pets over the years, including her dog, Rusty, and her cats Poodle, PG, Gray, Furby, and Pretty Boy.
Those left to cherish her memory include her loving husband of 56 years, Laurel Kenney of the home; her daughter, Laura Miller of McPherson, Kansas; her sister, Leona Adamson of Tyler, Texas; sister-in-law, Carolyn Kenney of Washington; nephews, Martin (Kristi) Adamson and Marvin (Melinda) Adamson; niece, Maria (Rick) Bennardo; and many extended relatives and dear friends.
Linda’s legacy is one of steadfast faith, devoted service, and unwavering love for her family and her Lord.
The family will receive friends from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM, Friday, January 30, 2026, at the McPherson Free Methodist Church. A celebration of life service will be at 10:30 AM, Saturday, January 31, at the McPherson Free Methodist Church.
Memorial contributions may be made to Central Christian College of Kansas or McPherson Free Methodist Missions for ICCM in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, Kansas 67460.
Personal condolences may be sent to the family at www.stockhamfamily.com.