Linda A. Harris, 78, of Ooltewah, TN died peacefully in her home on February 21, 2022 after a long illness. Lin was the loving wife of Rick Harris with whom she shared a wonderful life together for 36 years. She was born in Providence, RI to the late Eleanor and William McGuirk. Lin raised her family in Rhode Island and was a devoted and loving mother who could always be found at all her children’s sporting events cheering robustly for her own three as well as the many other kids who always seemed to gravitate to the family household. She never failed to open her home and her heart to all. After raising her family, Lin turned her talents and energy to the working world and immediately flourished in retail, starting at Filenes, rising through the ranks at Lord and Taylor, and becoming vice president of operations at The Narragansett Clothing Store. Along the way, she was an energetic motivator and mentor to countless coworkers. Lin and Rick traveled extensively throughout the United States with their golden retriever, Mitchell. Lin managed to inject humor, adventure and comedy throughout the “on the road” escapades they encountered while traveling cross-country. Lin and Rick eventually settled in Chattanooga, TN and she began a career in communications sales as a regional manager at MobileComm, where she quickly became a top sales producer. She took to life in the South but somehow retained her Rhode Island accent and her no-nonsense New England attitude. Most recently, Lin assisted with residential interior design at Rick’s development company, Big Whiskey Land and Cattle. In her spare time, Lin enjoyed reading, gardening, cooking, and most of all, spending time with her loving family and many friends. Her grandchildren and family spent many happy days visiting Lin and Rick’s riverside home, learning watersports and soaking up their Nannie’s love. Her indomitable spirit, beauty and style were an inspiration and she was a true friend to all who knew her. To know Lin was to have experienced one of life’s true originals. A story told by Lin was always full of all the good things—life, love, and humor. Whatever embellishments she may have added to her stories, in cooking terms, only enhanced the dish. Lin is survived by her husband Rick and her three children, James Wardle (Lisa) of Toms River, NJ, Kellie Gentille of Harrison, TN, Jeffrey Wardle (Robin) of Cranston, RI, and six grandchildren who affectionately called her “Nannie”. She also is survived by her sister, Diane Potter of Warwick, RI and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brother, William McGuirk and her former husband, James Wardle. A service celebrating Lin’s life will be held at the Commons in Collegedale, TN on Sunday, March 20, 2022, 2:00 PM. Funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
