Linda Gail Shaver

-In Loving Memory-

Linda Gail (Bristol) Shaver, age 68, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away peacefully on August 11, 2025, surrounded by her family. Born and raised in Jasper, Florida, Linda made Kansas City her home in 1975, where she would go on to touch countless lives with her heart, her hands, and her unwavering spirit.

In April 1990, Linda met Claude Shaver, and their love story blossomed quickly, leading to their marriage on January 11, 1996. Together, they shared a life filled with laughter, music, and cherished memories.

Linda began her working life at Sanderson’s Restaurant, a small, family-friendly diner where she worked alongside her mother and sister. The experience shaped her love for people and community. After leaving the restaurant business, Linda discovered her true calling in healthcare. She devoted herself to caring for adults with disabilities, offering love, patience, and compassion that allowed them to thrive and live with dignity. From 2001 - 2008, she worked at Living Life, and in 2009 she joined Ms. Joi Blackwell at EnJoiful Living -- a partnership that blossomed into a lifelong friendship. Linda retired on December 31, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of service, kindness and unwavering care.

Family and friends knew both the sweet and spicy sides of Linda. She could be mean at times, but she would do anything for anybody. Fierce when needed and full of love in equal measure. Linda was a wonderful cook; her macaroni and cheese was always requested at family gatherings. If you became sick, she was a “concoction queen", creating special hot teas to make you feel better. She delighted in simple pleasures. Crossword puzzles, romance novels, chocolate chip cookies, and a cold Sprite could always bring a smile to her face, even in her final days.

She was preceded in death by her parents: Willie Ray and Verda Mae (Davis) Bristol; her sister, Martha Jackson; her maternal grandparents: Odell and Izola Davis, and her paternal grandparents, Willie Bristol and Louise McNeil.

Left to cherish Linda's memory: her loving husband, Claude Shaver; her daughter, Chequita McGruder (Timothy); her son, Ray Anthony Bristol; her stepson, Kenneth Shaver; five grandchildren: Joshua L. Bristol, Danny L. McQuarters Jr., Deshanay L. McQuarters, Dremy L. McQuarters, and Kevon D. Verge; six great-grandchildren: Ja’Dyn, Joniyah, Bristol, Kameron, Nova, and Kevon Jr.; her sister, Lula Bristol; her brother, Ray Charles Bristol (Elaine); her brother-in-love, Lester "Buddy" Jackson; along with many other family members and friends who were blessed to know her.