Linda Beth Brake
May 1, 1944 – January 28, 2025
Linda Beth Brake, 80, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family. A devoted mother, grandmother and friend, Linda’s presence brought warmth and wisdom to those who knew her.
Linda was born in Oklahoma to James and Mildred Burns. She was the middle child of three girls with whom she was exceptionally close. During her high school years, Linda and her family moved to Phoenix, AZ where she attended Arcadia High School. After Arcadia, Linda attended the University of Arizona, graduating with a double major in French and Accounting.
At the U of A, Linda met her husband Bill Brake and for 61 years they conquered everything as a team. Including raising two daughters, Wendy and Shelly.
Linda was PTA president, softball coach, soccer coach, girl scout leader, brownie leader, 4H leader and every other volunteer position you can possibly think of. She was an avid tennis player and winner of the senior league doubles championship in her spare time. She and her girlfriends attended trail rides together for over 20 years and she enjoyed every second of it.
Around 1984, her husband came home and announced he had bought a ranch but that it wouldn’t affect the family in any way. This led to Linda becoming President of the Gila County Cattlewomen, and Arizona State Cattlewomen President for two terms. She was also named State Cattlewoman of the Year, the Outstanding Cattlewoman of the Year from the American National Cattle Woman, and National Cattlewomen Region VI Federation Chairman. Linda was very involved in the Arizona Beef Council as a board member for ten years, as well as integral in the National Beef Checkoff board. She was the chair of the National Beef Cookoff committee for multiple years.
Linda was preceded in death by her mother and father as well as her two sisters, Jamie Burns and Barbara Myers. She is survived by her husband, Bill Brake as well as her two daughters Wendy McGuirt and Shelly Brake, as well as her grandchildren whom she adored, JW McGuirt, Brody Bowler and Gabbi Bowler.
Linda will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy is as strong as her grace. We will look to her in every sunset, every rainbow and every rainstorm we face.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Santa Cruz County Cowbelles.