Linda “gail” Brooker, playfully known as “Dinky” to some, passed away on March 1, 2026, at 2:36 p.m. at Vancrest of Delphos. She was born November 19, 1951, in Tampa, FL, to the late Ola Denham and the late William Brooker.
Linda is survived by her sisters, Candy Ward, Karen (Joe) Nowlin, and Paula Young; brothers, Larry (Carol) Brooker and Mike (Lenore) Brooker; her children, Terry (Tim) Hamilton, Dawn (Steve) Cody, and Samantha (Josh) Young; grandchildren, Briggette Bandy, Elbert (Christy) Peeples Jr., Brittany (Michael) Manning, Jake (Anne) Hamilton, Kaylin (Bobby) Hartsock, Kody (Kayla) Fain, Josh (Kristi) Fain, Aaron (Amber) Fain, Kyle Cody, Cheyenne (Juan) Cody, Austin (Aubrey) Stapleton, Jordan (Grace) Dudgeon, Hailey (Brendon) Schnipke, Collin (Mykena) Young, Zoe (Nick) Young, Christian (Ava) Young, JJ Young, Gaige Young, and Mason Young; 20 great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family. She is also survived by her faithful companion and friend of many years, Rick Moore.
Linda spent her early years growing up in Florida, before coming to Ohio. Her family and friends knew her as a “ MY way or the highway” person, who had no issue voicing her opinion. She loved working for newspapers and was employed for many years at the Delphos Herald, Lima News, and Tampa Tribune. She was a die hard Steelers fan (thanks to her grandson), making sure not to miss a game. Her love of rock music led her to many concerts, especially her favorite band KISS, and countless others. She loved frogs and any little trinket, or knick knack someone would give her. The beach was her favorite place to visit. Most of all, she enjoyed talking with her family, bragging about her grandkids, crocheting, and drinking Dr. Pepper.
Along with her parents, she was also preceded in death by her brother, Chuck Brooker; sister, Diane Brooker, her dog, Hershey; brother-in-law, Larry Young; and granddaughter, Logan Hamilton.
The family would like to give a huge thank you to CHP of Delphos Hospice… especially RN Tara, Vancrest of Delphos, and everyone who reached out during this difficult time.
Graveside Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. at Walnut Grove Cemetery on Friday, March 6, 2026.
Memorial contributions can be made the family, or to the donor’s choice.