Linda Carol Claus

Linda Carol Jones Claus, age 60, of Water Valley, MS departed this life Thursday, June 15, 2023 at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Oxford, MS. She was born February 1, 1963, in Water Valley, MS to the late Herman Glen and Corrie (Gardiner) Jones.

Being born in Water Valley, Linda attended and graduated from Water Valley High School in 1981. Being described by her family as "one tough cookie", strong willed, with a distinct sense of humor, she joined the United States Air Force and honorably served her country for over twenty years as a jet engine mechanic. That took her first to Spain, then later to Travis Air Force Base in Fairfield, CA where she served the remainder of her military career. During this time, she attended the Brandman University Campus in Fairfield, CA where she received a Master's in Education. Linda was very caring and selfless, and had a desire to help people. With those characteristics, after retiring from the Air Force, Linda became an education supervisor for enlisted members pursuing a degree, guiding them to a place of higher education that would best fit their unique attributes. In 2019, Linda would retire completely from the work force and return home to Water Valley, where it all began.

In her free time, Linda loved gardening, where she could be close to nature, crafting of all types and playing Bunko with "the ladies". Above all, what she loved most was her beloved son, grandchildren, her precious fur babies, and dear friends and family.

Linda is survived by one son, Andrew Duchnowski (Miri); two grandchildren, Greyson Nam Duchnowski, Magnolia Estelle Duchnowski, all of Salem, CT; one brother, Bill Jones of Water Valley, MS; and her stepmother, Betty Jones.

Linda was preceded in death by both of her parents.

"For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better." PHILIPPIANS 1:21-23