Linda Dees Shortt, 81, passed away on March 4, 2025, in Lake City, Florida. She was born on October 6, 1943, in Jennings, Florida to Parke and Juanita Dees, and dedicated her life to family and friends, especially her beloved twin grandsons, Casey and Cole.

Growing up, Linda attended Jennings High School.  Her witty personality and friendly demeanor made an impression on her teachers, fellow students, and teammates.  After graduation, Linda spotted her soul mate, Mickey, walking across the North Florida Junior College campus in 1961. On August 16, 1963, they were married and blessed with 49 years of marriage.  When not caring for her two daughters or extended family, Linda found great joy in entertaining, helping her husband with his woodworking business, and caring for friends and family.  Neighbors and Melanie and Amy's friends always had a standing invitation to the Shortt home.  "Mrs. Linda" welcomed everyone with a smile and a snack.  Her job as "Grandma" brought her the biggest joy in life as she watched her grandsons grow up over the years. Linda was very artistic and had a passion for decorating and cosmetics.  Her nurturing spirit, loyalty, wit, and especially her humor endeared her to all who knew her.

Linda devoted over 30 years to the Hamilton County School System, working at Central Hamilton Elementary and Hamilton House / Panther Success Center as a school secretary, paraprofessional, and data clerk. She was a welcoming presence for countless families and students throughout her career, leaving a lasting impact on those she encountered.  After retirement, Linda used her talents at Shands Live Oak, serving as the switchboard operator. Whether teaching kindergarteners to read, tying shoelaces, completing student data reports, or answering the phone, Linda always had a smiling face, a cheerful spirit, and kind words for all

A lifelong member of New Hope Baptist Church, Linda grew up attending services and enjoying church activities with her beloved cousins. For many years, she served on the hospitality committee and played a key role in organizing and decorating for numerous bridal showers, baby showers, and wedding receptions. She was especially known for making the famous New Hope church punch—a cherished tradition that brought joy to many gatherings.

She is survived by her daughters Melanie Gay of Jasper and Amelia "Amy" White (Pat) of Carrabelle, FL, grandsons Casey and Cole Cannon of Jasper, brother Trammel Dees (Laura) of Jasper; nephew Travis Dees (Jennifer) of Statenville, GA, niece Annie Knight (Joey) of Madison, great-nephews Jake and John Parker, great-niece Maddie, best friend Helen Hobbs of Lake City, dedicated caregiver Verda Mathis, special friend, Sam, and numerous cousins. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Emil "Mickey" Shortt, son-in-law Randy Gay, her parents, Parke and Juanita Dees, and her sister, Vera Tyre Brown.  The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Verda, Solaris Health Care, and Haven Hospice for the compassionate care and support provided to Linda during her final days.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during a visitation on Sunday, March 9, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Harry T. Reid Funeral Home in Jasper, Florida. A funeral service will be held on Monday, March 10, 2025, at 11:00 AM at New Hope Baptist Church in Jennings, Florida. Interment to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be given to The Gideons International.