Linda C. (Burns Naymick) Harrison

With profound sadness, we announce that Linda Burns Naymick Harrison was called to her heavenly rest on March 30, 2024, following a recent illness. Born in 1942 to the late William Carroll and Cecile Dingess Burns, Linda was a proud lifelong resident of Huntington.

Linda's formative years were spent at Emmons Elementary School, St. Joseph’s Grade School, and St. Joseph’s High School, where she graduated in 1960. She pursued higher education at Marshall College, now known as Marshall University, where she majored in Business Administration and Physical Education. Linda's college years were marked by her enthusiasm for sports, shining as a key player on the varsity field hockey team, and her passion for the arts, memorably playing the lead in the university's production of "A Little Night Music."

Upon graduating, Linda began her career teaching Physical Education at Ona High School before venturing into the corporate world with IBM. However, her heart remained in education, leading her back to teach fourth grade at St. Joseph’s Grade School. Her dedication to teaching vocational education later shone at Huntington East High School and as the Supervisor of Distributive Education for Cabell County Schools. In this role, Linda skillfully blended her expertise in business and education to forge impactful programs and mentorships, preparing countless students for successful futures.

Linda's legacy is also marked by her courage and advocacy for justice. Confronted by her concerns about discriminatory practices faced by women in public education, she co-founded the Cabell County Alliance for Women in Education Administration, championing the advancement of women into leadership roles. Her steadfast commitment to equity was evident in her compelling testimony before the West Virginia State Advisory Committee to the U.S. Civil Rights Commission in 1986, leaving an indelible mark on the fight for equality in education.

Above all, Linda's life was a testament to her deep faith. A devoted member of St. Joseph’s Parish, she served as a sacristan, Eucharistic Minister, and choir member, living her faith through service and love.

Linda is preceded in death by her parents and her brother, David Michael Burns. She leaves behind a legacy of love with her husband Charles, her cherished daughter Jennifer “Kat” Naymick, her adored grandson Leo Earl, and her sister Patricia Burns Porter (Colin Hall). She also leaves behind her beloved nieces and nephews—Michelle Burns Woomer (Roger), Rachel Porter (Michael), Leslie Burns Ballengee (Dewey), Amanda Burns, William Burns (Cynthia), and Joshua Burns; her great-nieces and nephews—Ashley Woomer Hayes (Michael), Corey Woomer (Michelle), Porter Roberts, Cody Ballengee, Quinlynn Ballengee, and Wesley Burns; and her great-great-nephew and niece, Lincoln Woomer and Lily Woomer.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Cabell Huntington Hospital and Emogene Dolan Jones Hospice House for their care in Linda’s final days.

A visitation and celebration of Linda’s life will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Saturday, April 6, at 12:00 p.m. with Msgr. Dean Borgmeyer officiating. The family will receive friends after 11:00 a.m. Beard Mortuary is assisting the family.