Linda Paul

Linda Lou Ann Paul (Riddell-Sanders), 86, of Cord, Arkansas, went home to heaven on Thursday, November 5, 2026.

Linda was born on June 30, 1940 in Brady, Texas to Mickey and J.W. Riddell.

She met James Sanders, a serviceman in the army and it was love at first sight. She was proud of her Texas roots and her beloved bluebonnets, but she said she’d trade it all to follow him anywhere. James and Linda were married in 1955 and had three children, Stanley, Jerry, Carolyn (Keck) and moved to Arkansas in 1965. They settled in Cord where James built their family home. For 36 years, they shared a beautiful life together, both of them serving and teaching at Cord Baptist Church. Linda loved to help with Children’s Church and had a creative knack for bulletin boards and events. James passed away in January of 1991.

That next year, Rex Paul, a neighbor and long-time friend, began courting Linda, and the two were married on February 14, 1992. They enjoyed traveling to see family out of state, country line dancing, a good debate, and taking care of their grandchildren at their farm.

Linda, or MawMaw as she was called by the family, was known for her love of antiques and old movies. A walk through their home and you could see just what a collector she was. She loved colorful dishes, decorating for every season, and setting a fine table. Her love for plants and flowers kept her busy, spending hours a day out in the gardens. Her yard was always bright with color in the Spring and Summer as her roses and flowerbeds were in full bloom, as long as she could keep her cats out of them. Red, an orange tabby, was a faithful friend to her, bringing her lots of joy these past few years. She also had a love for Westerns, especially John Wayne, and could probably quote every movie ever played on TCM. Out of all of her passions, Linda loved Jesus most of all. She loved to sing hymns and talk about the Bible. And if you came by for a visit, she’d ask if you knew Jesus and if you wanted to pray with her.

Linda is preceded in death by her first husband James Sanders and a younger brother. She is survived by her husband, Rex Paul, her three children Jerry Sanders, Carolyn (Michael) Keck, and Stanley Sanders, and two step sons Randy (Melinda) Paul and Rusty (Tina) Paul, and a passel of grandchildren and great grandchildren. The family would like to extend their gratitude to a cherished friend, Mrs. Chris Maillet, who helped Carolyn care for Linda with great kindness and compassion.

The family of Linda Paul has chosen to honor her with a private family gathering in the home.

While our hearts grieve, we are not without hope. We know that because of her faith in Jesus Christ as the Way, the Truth, and Life, she is in the presence of the Lord. And for those who have put their trust in Christ, we will see her again in Heaven. And that invitation is available to you too. Romans 10:9 “if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”