Linda Gales (Tulia)

Linda Sue Simon Gales

Some people live in a community. Others become part of its heart. Linda Gales was one of those people.

Linda Gales, 80, of Tulia, Texas, passed away Monday, October 19, 2026, at her beloved Swisher Memorial Assisted Living Center. Funeral services will be held 11:00 A.M. Friday, October 23, 2026 in the Church of the Holy Spirit with Msgr. Arturo Meza offciating. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery.

A visitation will be held at 6:00 to 7:00 P.M. Thursday, October 22, 2026 in the Kornerstone Chapel following a rosary at 7:00 to 8:00 P.M. 

Born in Amarillo to Walter and Eleanor Simon, Linda began her career as a high school “shop girl” for Joyce Duke, eventually becoming one of Tulia’s beloved hairstylists and barbers at the Hairbender for more than 30 years. For Linda, it was never just about hair. Her chair was a place for laughter, stories, shared troubles, and friendships that lasted a lifetime.

A cancer survivor with a generous heart and a joyful spirit, Linda devoted herself to the community she loved. She served on the boards of Swisher Memorial, Tulia Senior Citizens, and Plainview’s Community Concert series. Whether decorating for celebrations at the Church of the Holy Spirit, dancing the waltz at the Tulia VFW, judging cars at Tulia Picnic, or cruising Dip Street in a collector car, Linda embraced life with enthusiasm.

She loved elephants, teapots, sunflowers, beautiful decorations, and making delicious desserts. More than anything, she loved making life special for others.

But her greatest treasure was family. To her surviving siblings, Pat Leach, Milton Simon, Annette Sprawls, and Mike Simon, she was simply Sis. To her many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, she was their beloved Aunty and Great-Linda. Her love was immeasurable, her presence unforgettable, and her family bonds a blessing beyond words.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Eleanor Simon, and her beloved friend, Leland House. She leaves behind a family who adored her and a community blessed by decades of her friendship and kindness.

For Tulia, she leaves a legacy of service and friendship. For her family, a lifetime of love and memories. And forever, she will be their one and only Sis and Aunty.

Well done, good and faithful servant.

May the Lord welcome Linda into His eternal embrace, and may perpetual light shine upon her.

Rest peacefully, sweet Linda. You were loved beyond measure, and you always will be.