Linda Sue Decker, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend to many, passed away on March 21, 2026, at Boone County Hospital in Columbia, Missouri. She bravely endured her battle with cancer, demonstrating unwavering strength, grace, and determination.

She was born on June 16th, 1957, to Merle and Reva Selby in Kirksville, Missouri. Linda grew up on a farm southeast of Kirksville. There she attended the Brashear schools and was a graduate of Brashear High School, class of 1975.

On September 3rd, 1977 she was united in marriage to Joe Decker. With their 48 years of marriage, they created a close-knit family including their three children: Ryan Decker and his wife Beth of Kirksville, Missouri; Brett Decker and his wife Cara of St. Louis, Missouri; and Lindsey Elschlager and her husband Nick of Ankeny, Iowa. Linda’s love expanded when she became a Grammie to her eight grandchildren- Brooklyn, Adyson, Alayna, and Jacob Decker of Kirksville, Missouri; Elizabeth and Alexander Decker of St. Louis, Missouri; and Beau and Nash Elschlager of Ankeny, Iowa. Becoming a Grammie was a blessing she treasured deeply.

Linda was a loving sister to Brad Selby and his wife Kathy, Diane Bloskovich and her husband Brian, and sister-in-law Karen Herleth, all of Kirksville, Missouri. She held a special place in her heart for her six nieces and nephews: Nathan Selby, Brittany Steinwald, Brooke Peterson, Bransen Bloskovich, Brennen Bloskovich, and Shawna King. Her love extended to her many cousins and dear friends who treasured her friendship and genuine spirit.

Though her family was always her greatest priority, she worked to forge a meaningful career. She devoted her time to the community through continued service in different clubs and organizations. After graduating from high school, she became a licensed Cosmetologist. Later she went on to pursue a role with the Adair County Assessor’s Office, secretary to the Kirksville Chief of Police, and as a secretary for Mayberry and Mayberry Attorneys. Most notably, she was elected and served 32 years as the Circuit Clerk of Adair County, where she was known as a proud and diligent public servant. Throughout her career, Linda was respected for her hard work, positive spirit, and the genuine effort she made to connect with others.

Something Linda will always be remembered for was her talented cooking. She loved preparing meals and hosting family gatherings in her home. Linda’s kitchen was truly the heart of the home and so many cherished memories were made there. Cooking was an expression of her love, but she enjoyed actively participating in the lives of her family members. She devotedly attended numerous activities and events involving her grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Her grandchildren cherished the time spent with her and the unconditional love she had for them. Being a Grammie brought immeasurable joy to her life, and she left her grandchildren with a legacy of love.

Linda’s life was preceded by her loving parents, Merle and Reva Selby, and her parents-in-law, Joe and Wilma Decker, whose memories she carried forward with grace.

Friends and family will have the opportunity to pay their respects during the visitation on Thursday, March 26, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Playle-Rimer-Millard Family Funeral Chapel, located at E Shepherd Ave, Kirksville, Missouri. A funeral service celebrating Linda’s remarkable life will be held on Friday, March 27, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at the same location.

Linda Decker left an enduring legacy highlighted by her commitment to family and a generous spirit that touched all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.