Linda Kathleen Lavin

Hillsdale- Linda Kathleen Lavin of Hillsdale, New York passed away peacefully in her sleep in the afternoon on Tuesday, September 20, 2022, with her husband and daughter at her sides. Linda was born in Elizabeth, New Jersey on March 1, 1952. Linda is survived by her adoring husband of 14 years, Jack Raymond Kidalowski, her daughters Alyssa Smith and Valerie Lishnoff, their husbands Barry Smith and Roger Lishnoff, her stepson Stefan Kidalowski and his wife Katie Kidalowski, her grandchildren Piper and Paitley Smith, Liviana and Naomi Lishnoff and Eli and Ania Kidalowski, her brother and sister-in-law Mike Lavin and Kate Johnson, her brother Jimmy Lavin, her sister and brother-in-law Peggi and Art Geissler, her sister Joyce Lavin, and her mother Madeleine Lavin.

Linda started her lifelong role as caregiver early on. The oldest of five children, she often helped care for her younger siblings as they were growing up. Linda was a natural leader and put her full effort into all of her endeavors from a young age. In high school, she twirled her baton as drum majorette at the front of the band, edited a school publication entitled The Chrysalis, sang soprano in the choir and earned the Valedictorian ranking in her class. Linda earned a BS degree In Business & Administration at Central Michigan University and MS degree in Mental Health at Long Island University CW Post campus

Linda perfected the role of nurturer as mother to Alyssa and Valerie later on, raising them with a gentle heart, unconditional acceptance and unwavering support. Linda provided comfort and healing to countless people throughout the course of her life and through her life's work as a counselor and educator. She worked as a counselor in a doctor's office, then later in her own private practice with colleagues and eventually conducted private sessions from her home office in person and over the phone. She was always available to anyone who needed her, often dropping everything to help someone work through a problem. She was a lifelong learner, always sought out new skills and methods and earned countless certifications and accolades. Her passion for healing, wealth of knowledge and caring spirit helped save many lives and enrich many others.

Linda was a friend to many, often developing deep spiritual connections with kindred spirits and lifelong friendships that endured the tests of distance and time. She gently nudged others to seek out the positive, recognize the lessons in all situations, and to trust that our challenges are essential in realizing our purpose on this planet and part of the Divine Plan of the Universe. Linda led by example, a champion of kindness and finder of good in all people. She was known to commit random acts of kindness because she believed in the immense power of positive action. Linda's sense of humor was unique and robust. She was always ready to laugh and eager to make others smile.

Linda loved animals and had many beloved pets throughout her life. Linda fed the birds every day, later sharing the duty with her husband, because she loved to watch the wildlife in her yard. Linda loved nature. She spent hours in her organic garden, cultivating her masterpiece. She and her husband traveled to as many places of natural beauty as they could.

Linda was a talented seamstress, and sewed many costumes and dresses for her daughters as they were growing up. She outfitted her grandchildren's nurseries with lovingly handmade curtains, blankets and pillows. Linda's greatest joy was her devoted husband and her family. She will be remembered as a loving Nana, Mom, wife, sister, daughter, friend and counselor.

A private Celebration of Life will be held for close family and friends. To honor Linda, please plant a flower or tree in your garden and say a prayer for her.

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