Linda J. (Rife) Burns
On July 30, Linda Jean Burns, 71, was called home to be with our Heavenly Father. While our hearts grieve her passing, we find comfort knowing she has been welcomed into eternal peace by the Lord she faithfully loved.
Linda’s greatest legacy was her family. She lived a life defined by unconditional love, selflessness, and service to others. For more than 20 years, she dedicated her career to the nonprofit world, where she touched countless lives with her compassion and servant’s heart. Whether through her work, her friendships, or the quiet ways she cared for those around her, Linda consistently placed the needs of others before her own.
Linda is survived by her devoted husband of 51 years, Kenneth “Kenny” Burns. They often shared that they knew on their very first date they would spend their lives together. Just six months later, they were married, beginning a beautiful journey that became the foundation of a loving family.
Together they were blessed with four children: Heather Burns [Chris Pettit], Sam Burns [Rachel], Emmy Cambisi [Anthony] and Jeff Burns [Kathy]. She was also the proud and loving grandmother of nine grandchildren, each of whom brought immeasurable joy to her life. Linda called Winamac home for majority of her life. She was the daughter of Gerald and Mary Ann Hatfield Rife, whom preceded her in death. She is survived by a brother, Rob [Karen] Rife, and three sisters: Faye [Morris - deceased] Fagner, Kim Rife, Karen [Dave - deceased] Budd. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Some of our most treasured memories revolve around time spent together as a family. Whether it was an impromptu road trip, Friday night dinners, or worshipping together at church, Linda understood that life’s greatest blessings were found in shared experiences and time with the people you love.
Linda found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved playing cards, searching for hidden treasures at garage sales, taking leisurely afternoon car rides, and, most of all, spending time with her grandchildren, family, and dear friends. She possessed a quick wit that could brighten any room and had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcomed and loved.
More than anything, Linda was the heart and foundation of our family. Through her steadfast love, unwavering faith, quiet strength, and gentle leadership, she instilled in each of us the values of kindness, humility, perseverance, and compassion. Though her physical presence will be deeply missed, the lessons she taught us and the love she poured into our lives will continue to guide us. Her legacy lives on in the family she cherished and in the countless lives she touched.
Visitation will be from 3-7 p.m., on Sunday, Aug. 2, at the Frain Mortuary in Winamac.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, Aug. 3, at the Frain Mortuary in Winamac, with Pastor Jeff Burns officiating.
Burial will be in Bell Center Cemetery in Bell Center.
Memorials can be made to Bell Center Bible Church or the Pulaski County Human Services Food Pantry.
Funeral services have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary.
(Pulaski County Journal — Aug. 5, 2026)