Linda Elaine Bass' Obituary
Linda Elaine (Woods) Bass was born on April 14th, 1947, in Oakland, California, to Norma Lee and John Woods. Alongside her two sisters, Beverly Wade and Loretta Mannon, Linda spent her childhood in Hayward, California, where she attended Tennyson High School.
In 1964, Linda married Robert “Bob” McClanahan, the love of her life. Soon after, Bob enlisted in the U.S. Army, and Linda embraced her role as a proud Military Wife and Mother. Together, they experienced life in various foreign countries and many states across the U.S. Linda especially cherished her time teaching English to young students at a Catholic School in Okinawa. She actively engaged with every community she lived in, including four memorable years stationed in Germany, where she enjoyed learning the language, customs, and cuisine. Linda often spoke fondly of these adventures.
Linda lived a life rooted in love, family and her beloved cats. She was known for her caring, humorous, dependable, accepting and kind nature. She found joy in cooking, knitting, crocheting, watching episodes of “The Incredible Dr. Pol”, and shopping on QVC.
Linda’s greatest pride was her family. She was a devoted mother and grandmother who supported her loved ones wholeheartedly. Her greatest goal was to be her family’s biggest cheerleader, always making each person feel valued and loved. Linda celebrated the achievements of her grandchildren and actively supported their dreams by paying tuition, helping them enroll in classes, or providing sports equipment and musical instruments.
Linda will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, unwavering love, and the legacy of family she leaves behind. Her presence was a true gift, and she will be missed beyond measure.
Linda was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert “Bob” McClanahan; her son, Brandon McClanahan; her parents, John Woods and Norma Lee Cuschera; and her sisters, Beverly Wade and Loretta Mannon. She is survived by daughter, Shona Mercurio (David), her grandchildren, Danielle Sisneros Erlich (Kyle), Cameron Mercurio and Jennica Mercurio, as well as many other loving relatives and friends.
Linda Elaine Bass will be laid to rest in a private ceremony at Chapel of the Chimes in Hayward. To honor Linda’s memory, memorial donations may be made to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals at https://www.ASPCA.org
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