Linda Kay DeJong, age 80, died Wednesday, Oct. 5.

Growing up in Martin on her parents’ farm, Linda had a fondness for horses. She owned, cared for, and enjoyed horseback riding even as late in life as March 2022.

During her late teens and early twenties, she participated in and won several pageants. She earned the title of Miss Martin, Allegan County Harvest Queen, Allegan County Dairy Princess and Michigan Dairy Princess.

She later met and married Lester. They went on many adventures together as they were both licensed pilots and owned their own plane. They traveled extensively, visiting the continents of Europe, South America and especially enjoyed their numerous trips to Africa.

She is survived by nieces Janice (Steve) Johnson and their three children, Julie Spencer and her five children, Joy (Joe) Henry, Debra Brenner (spouse of James) and their four children; nephew, Raymond (Sarah) Brenner and their six children; and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lester DeJong; parents Everett and Margaret Grinage; sister, Norma Brenner; and nephew, James Brenner.

Services will be held 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 7, at Kubiak-Cook Funeral Services (Wayland Chapel), 312 N. Main St., with visitation one hour prior. Linda will be laid to rest at Elmwood Cemetery in Wayland.

In memory of Linda and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Algoma Christian Schools.