Freeman, Linda Jeannette (Ellis) - Linda’s hometown was Brookfield, NS. While married, she resided for several years in Pleasant River, NS. She passed at the age of 77, a few months after her diagnosis of terminal cancer, on February 13, 2026.
If you were to capture Linda’s essence in a single statement, she was an unconventional, free-spirited woman who used to drive a motorcycle and loved music, art and crafts. She painted, worked with ceramics, made cards and journals, scrapbooked, cross-stitched, and most recently discovered a love for diamond art. She enjoyed reading, especially fantasy and mystical genres, and read aloud to her children and grandchildren.
Spiritually, she remained open and curious about many traditions, believing there are many faith pathways. Linda had a deep love of Christmas, a tradition passed down from her mother. Her home was thoughtfully decorated and often included several trees. One was taken to the palliative unit and became what she called her “winter tree” once the season was over. She also lovingly crafted and gifted many ornaments.
Linda lived much of her life in quiet contemplation. She was shy and often hesitant to share the fullness of who she was, yet she loved learning and earned degrees in both Teaching and Plant Science. She was employed at the Research Station in Kentville, NS, and later co-owned and operated a service station and then a strawberry U-pick with her husband, Alan. Her primary focus was raising her children, Jeannette (Jim) Kennedy, Patrick (Danielle Brinson) Freeman, and Michael (Theresa) Freeman, and helping raise two of her grandchildren, Jonathan Dixon and Taylor (Nick) Grossett. She loved her family and was excited for family gatherings. She adored all her grandchildren, Ronan (Jess), Derian, Mya, Hayden, Reegan, and Evan (Carter), and her great-grandchildren, Amelia, Elijah, Paige, and Levi. Linda’s nieces and nephews were extremely special to her; Laura, Ashley and Josh made special trips to see her in her final months.
Music was a lifelong passion. Linda learned piano, ukulele, and guitar, and especially loved simply listening to music, starting with 8-tracks, then records, 45’s, cassettes and CDs. Her record collection was extensive. During the last several months of her life, Ozzy Osbourne was her go-to favourite, proving music was important right to the end.
Growing up, Linda loved being outdoors, playing with spiders, snakes, and other critters. She was especially fond of cats; Dallas being the most special. She enjoyed camping with friends and family and was known to enjoy a party or two, including attending music festivals. In her later years, she had daily card games with her best friend, Grace Mackenzie, which often included profanities. They were likely still tallying scores during a final visit just a few days before Linda’s passing.
Linda was known for her kindness, humour and unmistakable laugh. Neighbours, home support workers and hospital staff often commented on these qualities. The family is deeply grateful for the palliative care support she received from VON, especially Jane, and at Eastern Shore Memorial Hospital, where Linda spent the last few months of her life. The staff provided exceptional care, and Linda often sang Andrea’s praises for the extra care she gave.
Linda was predeceased by her parents, Harold and June (Hilchie) Ellis; her brother, Vaughan; and her former husband, Alan. She is survived by her siblings, Keith Ellis, Gary Ellis, Evelyn O’Brien, and Elizabeth Thurber.
Linda’s music, laughter and creativity will live on through those who knew and loved her.
A service will be held later, date to be determined. Given Linda’s love of music, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the A Dollar A Day Foundation, co-founded by musician Alan Doyle to support access to mental health and addiction services. https://adollaraday.ca/#Donate
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