Linda Ann Symmes of Killingworth passed away on Feb. 2. She was born on Nov. 28, 1945, in Bronx, New York, the daughter of Raymond and Eleanor (Astrom) Sauter.
While working in Manhattan and going to Hunter College at night, she met her husband Tom on the subway. Soon after, they married and moved to Connecticut to start a family. While raising four children of their own, Linda ran a daycare out of their home for more than 25 years. She became interested in caring for children after taking part in the The Fresh Air Program, an opportunity for inner-city kids to live in rural areas. Being one of the few licensed daycare providers in town, Linda co-founded Second Homes Family Child Care Association, a network of providers getting together, learning from one another, and supporting each other.
Her love for children extended even further by doing weekly story hour at the local library and teaching Sunday school at her church. She enrolled in early childhood courses at night, took numerous workshops through the Connecticut Daycare Association, and even conducted workshops herself. She had a library of books at home on caring for children and child development. It was truly her passion.
Linda never stopped trying new things. She took ballroom dancing lessons with Tom. In her 60s, she enrolled in college courses, took piano lessons, and yoga. She loved to take walks, visit the library weekly, explore state parks, and travel when she could. She was extremely creative and loved crafts. She often made friends wherever she went, as she loved to talk and listen.
Linda is survived by her husband Thomas; children Randal Symmes of Chester, Jane-Ellen Symmes of Colchester, Garrett Symmes of Newport, Calfornia, and Lauren Egan and her husband Josh of Rocky Hill; sister Karen (husband George) Jantzen of New Rochelle, New York; nephews and godsons Erik, Kyle, and Karl Jantzen; and grandchildren Auden Demers, and Brynn and Kade Egan.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, Feb.7 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Swan Funeral Home, 80 E. Main St., Clinton. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Feb. 8 at 11 a.m. at the United Methodist Church, 12 Commerce St., Clinton. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to The Alzheimer’s Association.
