Linda J. Fabian 1949-2026
BOARDMAN — Linda Joan Fabian, 76, passed away Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Boardman Hospital.
She was born Dec. 30, 1949, in Youngstown, a daughter of the late Olen and Emogene Smith Uselton.
Linda graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1968.
Linda was someone who found joy in keeping busy and making life a little brighter for the people around her. Over the years, she worked many different jobs — selling hardware, working at JCPenney, demonstrating food products in stores, selling Oster appliances and caring for children — and in each chapter of life, she brought her warmth, humor and strong work ethic with her. She was creative by nature and loved keeping her hands and heart full, whether she was knitting, sewing, cooking or finding her next favorite item while shopping on HSN.
Her faith was deeply rooted and carried her throughout her life. She was a devoted member of Highway Tabernacle and believed strongly in serving others. That spirit of service could be seen in the many ways she gave back to her community — volunteering, helping at soup kitchens and dedicating 38 years to the Boardman Poland Junior Women’s League after becoming a member in 1988. She never needed recognition for the good she did; helping others simply came naturally to her.
Linda had a gift for making people feel comfortable. Her sense of humor, quick wit and talent for storytelling could fill a room with laughter. She loved gathering people together, especially around food, and was known as an incredible cook. Whether preparing meals for family or sending food along for her husband’s coworkers, nurturing others was one of the ways she showed love.
Above all else, her family meant everything to her. The love she had for her grandchildren was unmistakable, and she spoke about them with endless pride and affection. She was equally proud of her boys — of the men they became, the families they built and the lives they created. She loved not only their accomplishments, but also the people they grew into. And who could forget her special bond with her beloved wire-haired fox terrier, Bailey, who brought her constant companionship and joy.
Linda leaves behind to cherish her memory her beloved husband of almost 54 years, Richard Fabian, whom she married Oct. 7, 1972; her sons, Daniel (Amy) Fabian and Mark (Rebecca) Fabian; her grandchildren, Jordyn, Emily, Braedon (Dana), Joelle (fiance, Josh) and Thalia Fabian; great-grandchildren, Hazel, Violet and Lucius Fabian; her sister, Gail Constance; several nieces and nephews; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Robert and Judy Redig; and her canine companion, Bailey.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Friends and family will be received 9 to 10:45 a.m. Monday, May 11, 2026, at Highway Tabernacle, followed immediately by a funeral service at 11 a.m. She will be laid to rest in Forest Lawn Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that material contributions be made to either the BPJWL c/o Joyce Martin, 1874 Woodgate St., Austintown, OH 44515; or to Highway Tabernacle, 3000 S. Raccoon Road, Austintown, OH 44515, in her memory.
Arrangements were entrusted to the Davis-Becker Funeral Home. Please visit www.beckerobits.com to send the family condolences and share your memories.
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