Obituaries

Linda Patricia Colston, 77, of Whitwell, Tennessee, was called home on Friday, January 9, 2026. Born on October 10, 1948, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, she was the beloved daughter of Clarence Martin and grew up with a deep appreciation for caring for others that would shape her entire life. Linda married Gary Colston, with whom she shared many years of love and partnership until his passing. Their life together was filled with devotion, hard work, and a shared commitment to family. A proud and dedicated RN, Linda served as a Clinical Coordinator at Erlanger Hospital for an extraordinary 52 years. Her career was more than a profession—it was a calling. She poured her heart into every patient, colleague, and moment, touching countless lives with her compassion, wisdom, and unwavering work ethic. Linda was known for her vibrant personality and her gift for making people feel seen, valued, and cared for. Outside of work, Linda embraced life with joy and enthusiasm. She loved her nail salon visits, relaxing at the beach, and indulging in a good day of shopping. She found peace in the outdoors, especially spending time with the cattle or mowing under the open sky. But above all, nothing brought her more happiness than time spent with her family. They were the center of her world, and she cherished every moment shared with them. Linda leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and love, one that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Linda is preceded in death by her father, Clarence Martin; husband, Gary Colston; daughter, Lisa Mullins Mundis; and sister Mary Farmer.

Left to cherish her memories are her sons, Ronnie (Brandy) Smith, Donnie (Mandy) Smith; daughter, Donna Arnold; grandchildren, Heather, Brandon, Zach, Brooklyn, Rheighen Graham, several other family members and friends.

Visitation is Tuesday, January 13, 2026, from 4:00 to 8:00 pm CST and on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm CST at Tate Funeral Home in Jasper, Tennessee.

Funeral services are on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 1:00 pm CST in the Chapel of Tate Funeral Home with Pastor Ronnie Case officiating.

Linda will be laid to rest on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at Pine Grove Cemetery in Jasper, Tennessee immediately following the funeral service.

Pallbearers are Brandon Smith, Graham Smith and Donivon Richley.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Tate Funeral Home, LLC, 950 Mel Dixon Lane, Jasper, Tennessee 37347, 423-942-9500.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.tatefh.com.