Linda Grace (Moder) Barry (July 7th, 1947 – May 11th, 2024), a long-time resident of Reynoldsburg, Ohio, and beloved wife of James D. Barry, passed away unexpectedly Saturday afternoon. She is survived by sons Michael (Sediena), Matthew (Michelle), Andrew (Courtney), and daughter Fay Grace; grandchildren Adam, Brock, Carson Marie, and Homer. She is preceded in death by her son, Mark, beloved husband, James, and loving father, Paul Moder. She is survived by her loving mother, Zema Moder, brothers Kenneth (Gail) and Jerry (Chris), and nephew Ben (Jessica).
Linda graduated from Marysville High School, class of 1965, and Capital University in 1969 with a degree in education. She and Jim began their lives together in Cincinnati, Ohio, before moving to Reynoldsburg, where she found her dream home to raise their expanding family. She enjoyed fishing at Indian Lake, going to her children’s activities, sewing, baking, and feeding people. Later in life, she cherished spending time with her grandchildren. People who knew her drove by her house and often saw Linda sitting on her front porch reading and drinking iced tea. Like her husband, Linda dedicated her life to her faith and family, advocating for children’s education and supporting her local community.
Epiphany Lutheran Church in Pickerington, Ohio, became the center of her life. She and her husband, Jim, raised their children in the church. She was active in the church, helping to found Epiphany’s Preschool. She organized Christmas pageants, helped with Vacation Bible School, taught Sunday School lessons, and worked on various church committees. She deepened her faith later in life by taking courses at Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Bexley, Ohio. She was a Volunteer Coordinator at Luthern Village, helping to create a partnership with at-risk youth at Reynoldsburg Junior High before becoming a full-time grandma. Thinking of her future and ultimate resting place, Linda helped create Epiphany’s Memorial Garden and Columbarium.
Visiting hours are Wednesday, May 15th, from 6-8 p.m. and Thursday, May 16th, from 10-11 a.m., with a celebration of Linda’s life that will follow at 11 a.m., with Pastor Brad Gee officiating. Epiphany Lutheran Chruch is at 268 Hill Road North, Pickerington, Ohio 43147. Donations may be made to the Epiphany Lutheran Endowment Fund or to any charity (your choice) that advocates for children. Arrangements are being cared for by Cotner Funeral Home, Reynoldsburg, Ohio.