Linda Rae Tibbits

Tibbits, Linda Rae 6/25/1944 - 1/6/2021
Linda Rae (Nickell) Tibbits, age 76, peacefully went to heaven in the arms of Jesus, early morning, Wednesday, January 6, 2021 with her husband and children by her side at Edgewood Assisted Living Center in Saginaw.
Linda was born June 25, 1944 in Mt. Sterling, Kentucky to the late Joseph Edison and Lela Mae (McVey) Nickell. As an only child, she loved spending time with her cousins and family. At 9 years old, her and her parents moved to Royal Oak, Michigan. She graduated from Dondero High School in 1963 and then attended Detroit Bible College for a few years. Linda became very involved in her church, singing in the choir and ladies trio. She spent two years working at a hospital in Oakland, California before returning to Michigan to care for her mother.
Linda fell instantly in love on a blind date and soon became the precious bride of Reverend Robert William Tibbits on February 16, 1974. They celebrated 46 years of wedded bliss in 2020 with a very special vow renewal service in front of their family and church friends. Bob and Linda have two children; Joseph (Katrina) Tibbits and Melissa (Paul) Pococke, all of Saginaw. Her beloved grandchildren include Abigail Tibbits, Brennon (Chelsea) Eudis, Christian Eudis, PJ Pococke, Kayla Pococke and Ben Pococke.
A devout member of Saginaw Wesleyan Church, Linda served over 38 years as Pastor's wife, Sunday School teacher, children's ministry leader, and sang for the Lord in the choir, worship teams and many special programs. She had a desire for all her loved ones to know the saving power of Jesus. If she saw a need, she would pray for you right there, no hesitation. She loved everyone, even if she had to give you tough love.
Linda was more than beautiful, inside and out. She was strong, brilliant, kind, encouraging, godly, loving and sassy. The best Bible teacher, the best "doctor" mom, the most talented alto- could sing any harmony anywhere. She played the piano, was a great cook, a crossword puzzle queen, and had an eye for detail and decoration. Linda was a great protector; bold and brave and could talk to anyone. She loved Jeopardy, puzzles and adult coloring books. As an avid Detroit sports fan, she enjoyed going to games and watching them on TV. Always ready to go shopping, especially with her daughter. She was proud to be from Kentucky - always made an effort to visit her family there. Linda enjoyed her trips to South Haven with her girlfriends, floating on the waves at the beach. She loved to travel, go to the movies and reading. Her home was always open. She made so many feel like they were part of her family; as Nana Linda, as a second mom, as a sister in Christ. Linda was so proud of her kids and their families. She wanted nothing more than to watch her granddaughter, Abigail, grow up. She lovingly adored her husband who was truly her best friend. She put GOD and her family first. She was the absolute greatest and will be missed more than words can say. She is now singing with the angels.
Linda is survived by her beloved spouse, children, grandchildren, many special family members and friends.
Funeral Service will be held at 12 Noon on Saturday, January 9, 2021 at the Saginaw Wesleyan Church, 2125 Shattuck Road, Saginaw, Michigan 48603. Visitation will be from 10 am to 12 Noon, at the church right before the celebration of Linda's life. Her husband, Pastor Bob Tibbits, will be officiating. Face masks are required and social distancing encouraged.
Burial Internment will take place at Monday, January 11, 2021 at 11 am at Roselawn Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, you may consider Saginaw Wesleyan Church.