Linda Kay Ford

Linda Kay Ford, 85, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, passed away on August 4, 2025. She was born on July 5, 1940, in Sallisaw, Oklahoma, to Lillian Mae (Helton) Cotton and Carl Wear Cotton. Linda married William Earl "Bill" Ford on May 2, 1958, and together they built a loving family.

In her earlier years, Linda contributed her talents working at Welch's Dairy Dip and Ivey's Drug before dedicating herself to a fulfilling career as a Judicial Secretary for the Sequoyah County District Judge's Office. Her commitment to her community extended to her involvement with the Sallisaw Church of Christ, particularly as a devoted member of the Piecemakers quilting group.

Linda had many passions, including quilting, shopping, and golf, but her greatest joy came from spending time with her family. 

She is survived by her beloved husband, William Earl "Bill" Ford; her daughter, Cheryl Ann (Ford) Hall and Cana; two granddaughters, Whitney Beth (Hall) Padgett and Josh, and Caitlyn Rayann (Hall) Brannon and Beau; and four great-grandchildren, Averi Elizabeth Padgett, Emma Faith Padgett, Baker Cain Brannon, and Collins Grace Brannon. Linda also leaves behind her sister, Ramona Sue (Cotton) Cooper, along with numerous other relatives and friends who will cherish her memory.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents; a great-grandson, Connor Joshua Padgett; her brother, Charles Perry Cotton; and her brother-in-law, Richard Cooper.

A funeral service to honor Linda's life will take place at 10:00 AM on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Agent Mallory Martin Chapel in Sallisaw, Oklahoma, with burial to follow at Sallisaw City Cemetery. 

Active pallbearers include Josh Padgett, Beau Brannon, Cana Hall, Shannon Vann, Dan Carter, and Steve Carter, while the Honorary Pallbearers will be the Sallisaw Church of Christ Piecemakers.

Viewing will be available from Noon to 8 PM on Thursday and 10 AM to 8 PM on Friday at Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Home in Sallisaw, OK, where the family will greet guests from 6 to 8 PM on Friday.