Linda Mary Rollin

Linda Rollin was everyone’s sister and everyone’s best friend.  We adopted her, joyfully inviting her to become an important part of our family.  She was our mentor, teaching us by example in her quiet, dignified manner, how to be kinder, how to care a little more about each other, because that was how she lived.  Linda showed us how to listen, and to listen with genuine interest, because she genuinely cared about us and everything that was important to us; indeed, she cared more about us than she cared about her self. She lifted us up, nurtured us, brought out the best in us, and brightened our lives.  She made us laugh and think about ourselves in a better way. And, with this obituary, we bid her a heartfelt farewell, as well as pay tribute to her, a tribute that is inevitably less than she deserved.

As we remember Linda, memories may pour down our cheeks, but a smile will form on our face.  We fondly remember the gifts she gave us:  packages of her legendary biscotti and pizzelles fragrant with anise, tins of delectable Italian candies, artistic floral arrangements created as the proprietor of Hansen’s Georgetown Florist, coffee and sweets at the venerable Borracchini’s Bakery, Thanksgivings in scenic Ocean Park, reunions in Oroville surrounded by green pastures and orchards, vacations amidst the mountains of Montana.  Yet, it was the gift of herself that was the greatest gift of all.   

Linda made everything more special, especially holidays, when she decorated her home for each occasion.  In March, St. Patrick’s Day curtains would be hung in her kitchen, while at Easter a branch festooned with colorful eggs would be displayed on the front porch to welcome visitors and passersby.  Guests to her home would be treated to plates of cookies and tea poured into English bone china cups along with conversation and photographs of her trips to visit family in Italy.

Linda was truly a child of Georgetown and of St. George Parish, growing up in its confines and living in the family home until she moved to Skyline at First Hill several years ago.  Her knowledge of old Georgetown as a commercial and manufacturing center was encyclopedic, although it was the inhabitants who were most dear to her.  She loved to travel its streets, pointing out former residences and businesses that had once lined its avenues.  Still, it was the Castle which held a unique place in Linda’s heart, and she never tired of driving by this turreted 1902 home.

Linda was deeply loved by all who had the privilege to know her, and we are consoled by the knowledge that she will never leave our side.  Please join us at St. George Parish on Saturday, August 5, at 11:00 a.m. as we celebrate her 88 years of life, as well as her reunion with her beloved parents, Maria and Frank Rollin, and longtime friend, Monte McDaniel.  Remembrances may be sent to the Parish or to Holy Names Academy.