Linda Lee Brotherton-Thompson

Linda Lee Brotherton-Thompson, born December 10th, 1949, in West Plains, Missouri, to Paul and Ruby Brotherton, passed away peacefully on February 1st, 2026. As a lifelong resident of the area, in her early years, Linda graduated from West Plains High School in 1967, where her sharp mind and vibrant spirit began to shine. She loved bowling, fishing, roller skating, going to the lake, and having lots of fun.

 

Linda's life journey included three marriages. The first two being wonderful men who loved her dearly, Benny Ray Butler and Randy Upton. Randy and Linda became foster parents to their nieces Vanessa and Ashley Harrison. Her final marriage was to Alan Thompson—each chapter bringing its own lessons and growth. Throughout her life, she faced many personal challenges and made choices that sometimes led her down difficult paths, yet through it all, she remained deeply tolerant, resilient, and profoundly loved by those who truly knew her heart.

 

What truly defined Linda was her extraordinary sparkle, warmth, and joy. She was the undeniable life of every party, lighting up rooms with her smile, infectious laughter, quick wit, and boundless energy. As an incredibly intelligent woman, she possessed a keen intellect that allowed her to engage in meaningful conversations on almost any topic. Her talents were many—creative in ways that touched everyone around her, whether through her love of cooking, hobbies like macrame, fishing, bowling, karate, interior decorating, or simply the way she made ordinary moments feel special. Her nieces and nephews called her 'Innie' as a beloved nickname.

 

Linda's creativity and generosity extended to her relationships; she had a gift for making people feel seen, valued, and uplifted. Despite the missteps along the way, her capacity for love, kindness, and forgiveness was immense. She taught those closest to her that imperfection does not diminish worth, and that a full life is one lived with passion, even when it includes stumbles. Although she never had children of her own, she fiercely loved her nieces and nephews.

 

She is survived by her sister; Brenda Jo & Keith Gray of West Plains; several nieces and nephews, Crystal & David Cook, Heather & Robert Butler, Billie Gray, Jeremy Harrison & special friend Katie Alexander, Vanessa & Bert Stirewalt, Ashley Harrison, and Brandi Harrison, along with several cousins, great nieces and nephews.

 

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Abe & Eunice Brotherton, Fred & Irene Irvin, her parents, Paul and Ruby Brotherton, her aunt, Ina & Charles Brotherton, her uncle, Bill & Betty Irvin, sister Glenda Harrison, cousin Connie & Larry Wigginton, husband Alan Thompson, and lifelong best friend Carol Parrish.

 

A Celebration of Linda's Life and fundraiser will be held at the West Plains Elks Lodge #2418, 3633 N. Hwy 63, West Plains, Missouri, on Saturday, February 7th at 6 pm in honor of her vibrant spirit and the lessons her journey imparted. In lieu of flowers, the family requests monetary donations to help cover funeral expenses. The family would also like to send a special 'thank you' to her nephew, Cainen Harrison, for being her caretaker the last six months of her life.

 

Linda Lee Brotherton-Thompson will be remembered not for perfection, but for the beautiful, incredibly fun, and deeply loving individual she became —and for the light she brought into so many lives. She was, in every sense that mattered, an extraordinary person. She's home now, healed and in the arms of Jesus, which brings us peace.

 

Arrangements by Always Faithful Memorial Services, West Plains, MO