Obituary of Beverly Jean Linn

Beverly Jean Linn: Artist, Teacher, Loving Mother Beverly Jean Linn, a deeply compassionate and wildly creative artist and teacher who infused her love for art and nature into everything she did; passed away on Saturday, December 17 th 2016 in Salem, Virginia at the age of 67. Beverly was a warm and caring person who was born on March 9 th , 1949 in Flint, Michigan. She grew up alongside six brothers and sisters, including a twin sister, Bethany. After finishing high school at Ainsworth High, Beverly moved on to Michigan State University becoming the first in her family to receive a college degree, graduating with a B.A. in Graphic Design in 1973. Shortly after completing her degree, she joined General Motors, working in the engineering department of Buick as a Commercial Artist. In 1975, she married Ernest Linn and moved to Roanoke, Virginia, where she would begin her most important and successful journey, that of a loving and devoted mother. She and Ernie raised three boys and a girl, John, Doug, Samantha, and Logan; each of whom was a source of great joy for Beverly. She incredibly balanced raising four children while also teaching art to various levels of students at Roanoke County Public Schools, where her distinguished career spanned more than 25 years. Her unbridled passion for art and creative vision were evident not only to her students but to anyone she met, keeping her in high demand for private lessons and Roanoke County’s Gifted Art program. Beverly was a constant influence throughout the school and local community; designing t-shirts for school events, creating the backdrops for plays and programs and even designing murals for churches and various schools in the area. Beverly’s unique artistic style focused on symmetry and balance and frequently incorporated elements of nature. Beverly was a beautiful, light hearted woman, who was filled with laughter and boundless love. The creativity and empathy she instilled into her children, students, and friends will continue to inspire for many years. Beverly is survived by children John, Douglas, Samantha, and Logan, as well as five grandchildren. Private memorial services were held on December 29th at the Taubman Art Museum in Roanoke, Virginia. A memorial website has been created and can be found at www.beverlylinn.com.