Linda Jean Smith

Linda Jean Smith, age 73, of Madelia, MN, formerly of Maple Lake and Richmond, MN, died on September 30, 2026, at her home.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, from 4:00pm to 6:00pm at Sturm Funeral Home in Madelia, MN and will continue on Wednesday from 10:00am until 11:00am at the Church of St. Timothy in Maple Lake, MN.

Funeral Service will be held at the Church of St. Timothy in Maple Lake, MN on Wednesday, October 7, 2026 at 11:00am. Luncheon to follow at the V in Maple Lake.

Interment will be at the Calvary Cemetery in Faribault, MN on Thursday, October 8, 2026 at 11:00am.

Arrangements are with the Sturm Funeral Home in Madelia. Online Condolences may be left for the family at www.sturmfh.com.

Linda Jean (Neuroth) Smith was born in Chicago, Illinois, on January 7, 1953, Linda was the first of eight children born to Lee and Elaine Neuroth. Her upbringing in Fox Lake, IL, brought her appreciation for family and tradition, particularly during cherished visits to Minnesota, where her Polish grandmother often took her to visit. These experiences blossomed into a lifelong love for the state, guiding her to settle and thrive in Minnesota through her education and adult life.

Linda was a proud member of the Carmel High School for Girls, graduating in the top 10 of her class in 1971. She pursued her passion for learning at St. Mary's College in Winona, MN, graduating cum laude in natural sciences in 1975. Her love for music shone brightly as she became a certified piano teacher through the Minnesota Music Teachers Association and earned her Suzuki Piano Teacher certification.

In her 50 years of marriage to her beloved husband, Daniel Smith, whom she wed on October 23, 1976, in Rochester, MN, Linda nurtured a beautiful family. Together, they raised two wonderful children, welcomed three grandchildren and was godmother to 8 children.

A pillar of the local educational community, Linda co-founded the Youth Education at Home (YEAH) homeschool group in St. Cloud, where she served as president for over 15 years. She was also the owner and educator at Sweet Sound Studio for 25 years. Her commitment to the arts was evident during her decade-long presidency with the Central MN Music Teachers, where she also served as a judge for numerous music programs. She produced and hosted the 'Friends of the Family' monthly TV show in St Cloud for 10 years.

Linda's spirit extended beyond her musical contributions; she dedicated countless hours to church activities as a musician and singer for the church. Her kindness and passion for learning led her to start and lead various book clubs, participate in the Seven Sisters Prayer Ministry, and contribute to local pro-life initiatives. Faith in God was the driving force in her life.

Linda's very warm and kind personality touched everyone she met. She enriched the lives of her family, friends, and students. She was a devoted volunteer and a dedicated member of the community.

Linda is survived by her husband, Dan Smith; daughter, Angela (Dan Kennedy) Smith; son, John (Miranda) Smith, father, Lee Neuroth; siblings, Lenette Peterson, Lee Neuroth, James Neuroth, Kirk (Rose) Neuroth; grandchildren, Adrian, Katrina and Cheyenne Smith. She was preceded in death by her mother Elaine Neuroth; brothers, Thomas and John Neuroth, and sister, Paula Neuroth.

Heart felt thanks to the Allina Hospice Staff: Kim, Ashley, Marissa, Shayla, Shannon, Terra, and Laci for their care of Linda in her final weeks.

A special thank you for the whole hearted support of our neighbors who donated much time, food, emotional support and most of all, love to Linda: Ellie, Cassie and her boys, Joanne and Tom, Mary, Kathyanne, Terri and Bob.