Linda Nell Vincent Coakley, 72, of Madisonville, KY, passed away on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at Brighton Cornerstone Healthcare in Madisonville.

She was born on January 13, 1954, in the heart of Muhlenberg County, Kentucky in Greenville, KY. She was the beloved daughter of Henry Daniel Vincent and J. Nell Whittinghill Vincent, both of whom preceded her in death. From her parents, Linda learned the values of family, faith, strength, and resilience - values she carried throughout her life.

A proud graduate of Portage High School, Class of 1972, Linda went on to build a career with Orville Redenbacher in Valparaiso, Indiana, and Monosol in Portage, Indiana. She was known for her strong work ethic, dedication, and vibrant personality. Linda never met a stranger and was always ready to share a story, offer her opinion, or bring laughter into the room.

Linda's life was enriched by the people and animals she loved dearly. Her beloved dog, Buddy, was her faithful companion for fourteen years. She loved him deeply, and he was not only her companion but also her protector in this life. She believed he would continue to watch over her in the next.

Linda was a devoted mother to her two daughters, J. Lynette Sphar, married to Richard Omar Sphar, and Jessica Dale Crick, married to Marvin Benjamin Crick. Her greatest joy continued through her grandchildren: Andrew Garrison Smith; Nathan Dale Crick and his wife, Kayla Crick; Bradley Jay Crick; and Johnathan David Erdei. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Kolten Xavier Crick and Sadie Leighanne Grace Crick, with the anticipated arrival of Baby Crick #3 bringing even more joy to the family.

Linda had a wonderfully unique personality and a wide range of interests. She loved ghost stories and crime shows, and she found joy in the simple pleasures of playing cards and dice with her sister and close friends. Her weekly Bible study sessions with her good friend Zo were especially meaningful to her and reflected her enduring faith and desire for spiritual growth.

Linda was one of five siblings, with one sister and three brothers, and she was the second oldest. She and her sister, Diana Lynn Pofahl, and Diana's husband, Byron, who preceded Linda in death, enjoyed spending time together. Her brothers were Steve Vincent and his wife, Barbara, who preceded Linda in death; Danny Ray Vincent and his wife, Debbie; and Johnny Allen Vincent and his wife, Marybeth. Linda's life was further blessed by her many nieces, nephews, and their families.

Her closest friends were family in every sense of the word. Kitty and Mike Wayte held a special place in her heart, as did her lifelong best friend, Yvonne Wilson, who preceded her in death. The love and memories shared with them were treasured parts of Linda's life.

Linda was strong-willed, outspoken, and never afraid to make her presence known. She loved being at the center of attention and had plenty of strong opinions—whether you asked for them or not. That unmistakable spirit was part of what made Linda so memorable. She lived life in her own way, loved fiercely, spoke honestly, and left an impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Baptist Health Deaconess Hospital and Brighton Cornerstone Healthcare for the care, kindness, and support they provided to Linda and her family.

In honor of Linda's memory, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society, a cause that was close to her heart.

Linda's legacy is one of love, strength, faith, laughter, and an unforgettable spirit. Though she will be deeply missed, the stories she told, the lives she touched, and the love she gave will remain in the hearts of her family and friends forever.

No services will be held. Harris Funeral Home was entrusted with care.