Obituary of Emma Irene Linn
Emma Irene “Cittie” Linn, of Benton’s Ferry, died Friday (February 20, 2026) surrounded by her family. She was born June 10, 1927, a daughter of the late William Cecil Shorter and Norma Holt Shorter.
Irene suffered much heartache in her life: losing her mother at a young age, two sons, a daughter-in-law, and preceded in death by her siblings and husband. Despite this, she had unparalleled faith and resilience. She talked to the lord daily. She loved her family above all else. She hosted weekly Sunday dinners with all of her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and anybody else who wandered in. She was an amazing teacher. She taught Sunday school for many years at Sarrietta Methodist Church. Irene touched every person she met with an incredible light and kindness- even in her last days. She was a natural caregiver and inspired those around her. She was a feisty country gal that loved music, singing, and dancing. It was rare to see her at home without a cup of coffee and task at hand- whether it be cooking, gardening, canning, or swimming. She was an animal lover and believed animals went to heaven. She was a devoted wife and longed for the days to be reunited with the love of her life Lloyd. It is in our belief that she is surrounded by her loved ones and animals at home at last.
Survivors include a son, Lloyd A. “Bugs” Linn; and a daughter, Karen Sue Carpenter and husband Randy of Benton’s Ferry. Also surviving is a brother-in-law Tommy S. Linn. Surviving grandchildren are Teresa Linn Connor and husband James, Tammy Linn and partner Chris, Stacey Linn Vangilder and husband Wes, Juanita Toothman and her husband Joey, Ricky Ray Linn, Connie Linn Laya and husband Chad, Shelli Woofter and husband Ryan, and Kristen Carpenter and partner Steve. Great grandchildren include Colton Connor and wife Olivia, Olivia Connor and fiancé Austin, Piper Woofter, Chaz Shuck and wife Laciey, Andrew Shuck and partner Amy, Dustin Toothman and wife Chelsea, Megan Toothman and partner Scott, Ricky Jr., Destiny Linn and husband Zack, Dakota Linn, Troy Linn and wife Brandii, Casey Linn, and Cassandra Mullenax. One special niece Helen Moore and husband James. And many special great great grandchildren.
Irene was preceded in death by her loving husband of 65 years Lloyd E. Linn. Her sons Larry Lee Linn and Mark Allen Linn; a daughter in law Sharon Vangilder Linn; brothers Charles, Edward “Eb”, Kenneth “Kenny”, Claude “Tommy”, and Ricky Shorter. Sisters Beulah “Boots” Potts, Myra “Lou” Riddle, Karol Sue Long, and Darla Miller.
Pallbearers will be James Connor, Ryan Woofter, Chaz and Andrew Shuck, Colton Connor, and Austin Hamrick.
In lieu of flowers friends and family can make donations to the Marion County Humane Society.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ford Funeral Home, Ford Chapel 201 Columbia Street, Fairmont, WV. 26554. Friends will be received on Sunday, February 22, 2026 from 2p.m. until 8p.m. and again on Monday, February 23, 2026 from 11a.m. until 1p.m. A funeral service will be held on Monday at 1p.m. with Reverend Andy Newman as celebrant. A graveside service of committal will follow at Linn Cemetery in Bentons Ferry. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.fordfuneralhomes.com.
