Linda Lee Desporte

One of the most powerful bonds that exists is that between a mother and her children. When mom knew months ago that her time on Earth was approaching its end, she gave each of her four children tasks to complete so that SHE could check them off her list. Writing an obituary for our mother is one of the most difficult things that she has even asked me to do. In fact, Mom, I owe you an apology because I was completely dishonest with you when you asked me if I completed writing your obituary. I told you it was done because I wanted you to have peace about it. Truth is, I have been avoiding it because it made losing you so real. Reality is that you are now right where you have always wanted to be, and that is right beside God. Here is my humble attempt at trying to put into words the amazing wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and person that all who knew you knew that you were. I will begin with the formalities. Linda Lee Desporte, aged 71, died peacefully on February 13, 2015 at her d'Iberville home in the loving arms of her husband Jimmy. Linda was born on November 20, 1943 in Kentucky to James Farmer and Hazel Elkins. She is survived by her husband, Jimmy; daughters, Terry Desporte Osborne (David) and Dina Desporte Holland (Mark); sons, Anthony Desporte (Carolyn) and Dale Desporte (Malette); ten grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; brother, Billy Farmer of TN; and many other relatives and close friends. All that knew our mother know that she had great loves in her life, the greatest being her husband. She has told us many stories of our dad coming into the Lamplighter Cafe 53 years ago hoping to catch a good meal, instead he caught a glimpse of her insisting that she go out with him. Mom refused multiple times, mostly because she had two little girls to take care of. Finally, she gave in. Terry and I would like to thank you, Mom, for having the courage to leave the situation hoping to give us a better life and for falling in love with Dad. The four of us are so grateful that the two of you gave us an amazing life and an even more amazing family. Among her great loves were her children. Terry, Anthony, Dale and I never doubted how much we meant to you. Mom reminded us often that when it was all said and done, family is all that you have. This great love was extended to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Chad, Cherie, Justin, Cassie, Savannah, Breanna, Jamie, Hunter, Jake, and Chase will never forget the amazing trips across the world that you took them on. Believing in the power of family, Mom along with Dad built another one of her great loves - Biloxi Paper Company. Many that worked with her would agree that that pint-sized woman could and would outwork most and was always fair and honest. She would be proud that those same work ethics continue. Anyone that came to her home would easily see that she had a great love for flowers. Nothing gave her greater joy than putting her hands in the dirt hoping that something beautiful would spring from the ground. She shared this love of flowers with her church creating beautiful gardens for all to enjoy. She believed helping others who had challenges in their lives was her responsibility. Mom believed in a hand-up rather than a hand-out. Finally, her love for God and her belief in Him has enabled her to endure this past year. She would often say, He suffered for me so why shouldn’t I suffer. It is going to be difficult to see that empty kitchen chair where so many memories were made. However, we are going to complete the final task on her checklist - celebrate her life with no tears and be happy for her new eternal life with God. Funeral services will be at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, February 16, 2015 at Heritage United Methodist Church. Burial will follow at Southern Memorial Park. The Howard Avenue Chapel of Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations to Heritage United Methodist Church, earmarked for the Flower Garden, 4322 Popps Ferry Road, D’Iberville, MS 39540.