Mary Linda Whitlock was born December 10, 1952, in Richmond, Virginia. In 1971, she married Charles D. Whitlock, Sr. and together they had three children. She is preceded in death by her parents, Clifford Owen Wiley and Regena Dorsey, her brother, Kara Jerome Hughes and her ex-husband Charles D. Whitlock, Sr. She is survived by her children Charles, Jr. (Tara), Kymberly (DeWayne) and Anthony; granddaughters Ashley, Andrea and Jocelyn; sisters Clintona Wiley, Lynette McIntyre, Dionne Wiley and Venita LaTonya (Glenn); brother Clifford Owen Wiley, Jr. sisters-in-law Joyce Gentry (Raymond) and Donna Hughes; several nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. She also leaves her beloved pet Havanese, Gena.

Linda was a graduate of George Wythe High School. Her career included roles in banking, customer service and operations. She retired in 2010 after 30 years with Dominion Energy (formerly Virginia Power) where she last worked as a Business Process Analyst.

Linda enjoyed gardening, bird watching and puzzle games. She was a Washington Redskins/Commanders fan and was a season ticket holder for many years. She also liked to stay informed about current events. She kept in the know by frequently watching the news, reading newspapers, and staying current on social media. She pursued several interests after retiring, including becoming a certified and licensed private investigator and a Court Appointment Special Advocate. She also became an expert in genealogy and thoroughly researched her family's history.

Linda was a proud mother, grandmother and aunt. She taught her family the importance of faith, education, and financial literacy. She was an amazing cook, and her family especially enjoyed her meatloaf and mac 'n cheese recipes. She loved surprising her family with gifts. She always made sure you had your favorite treats at Easter and Christmas. She never missed a celebratory moment. You would not have a birthday without cake and candles, and you must pause to celebrate wins - big and small. Linda had a listening ear like no other. Her patience and wisdom would shine through any challenge.

She was a friend you could count on – for company, for help, and always a good laugh. We can take peace in the knowledge that she continues to watch over all of us.