Saturday, September 18, 2021

Lynda Jones Aldridge

Lynda Jones Aldridge, 68, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on September 12, 2021, after a valiant fight against complications from COVID. She was born on July 1,1953, in Orangeburg, South Carolina, to Wade Thomas Jones and Mary Lineback Jones, who both preceded her into eternity. Left to cherish her legacy of love and faith are her children, Wade Aldridge and Leah (Joffred) Mercado; brother, Stephen (Llewelyn) Jones; sister, Beth Herndon; grandchildren Zachary Hunt and Maryana Aldridge; granddogs Stella Mercado and Jake Aldridge; her blonde bonus daughter, Shelley Bradford (Darren); and her godsons, Thomas and Meyer Bradford. 

Lynda graduated from East Carolina University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts. She was very proud of her service in the United States Navy; she was active 1978–1982, and remained in the reserves until 1993.

Lynda lived out her testimony by sharing the love of God with everyone she met through encouragement, prayer, and deeds. She was kind, selfless, and generous in all facets of her life. When someone would make the comment “Who knows?” Lynda would always answer, “God.” 

Lynda enjoyed her diversified career from an upstart business in “offsite” administrative support (well before its time, such as working from home today) to HD Supply. She finished her career at First Baptist Church of Orlando (FBCO) children’s ministry. Her mission and outreach extended beyond any clock. 

Lynda worshipped as a member at FBCO for more than 40 years and enjoyed serving on the creative arts stage management team, where she brought balance and peace to any situation. In the past few years she was introduced to Matthew’s Hope, a local homeless ministry, where she served in any area needed, always wanting to know people’s stories, from guests to staff members. Lynda preferred being behind the scenes, and she called herself an elf.

Those who had the privilege of knowing Lynda found her a loyal friend. She was smart, funny, and joyfully dedicated to serving others. Her love for the word of God and turning any situation “spiritual, never judgmental” was a gift that would leave those around her in awe. Lynda regularly handed out Bibles, and when she found a book that blessed her (most recently Threadbare Prayer), she bought copies in bulk to share. Her love for watermelon (which she called “birthday cake”) was well known to those who knew her. She walked through this life with outstretched arms and a gentle touch of grace, and even now she continues to bring people together.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, September 19, at First Baptist Church, 3000 S. John Young Parkway, Orlando, FL, 32805. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First Baptist Orlando children’s ministry, 3200 John Young Parkway, Orlando, FL. 32805 or Matthew’s Hope, 611 Business Park Blvd #101, Winter Garden, FL, 34787.

7 comments:

Susie said...

This is Susie Pittman. I worked with Lynda over 40 years ago and she was a good friend. I'm sorry to hear that she has passed away. I wish her family and friends peace.

Ralph said...

Lynda I was never angry with you, when.you mis directed me in the trees. I just had to remind you that you were too professional to mess up. And I will always be grateful for the way you helped me in the light ad Herod. And thank you for not allowing me to scared to jump back on stage after my cancer. Love you ralph

Unknown said...

My family grieves with the FBCO community. You were a part of the body of Christ for the city of Orlando which is a very special place to serve. I know you touched the lives of family with small children because I witnessed how much devotion you had for that ministry. Jesus will take care of everything you left behind. Your seeds will bear much fruit.

Mylene Jimenez said...

Deepest condolences to her family and friends.

Erica Hall said...

I first met Lynda during a volunteer lunch at FBO. I asked if a seat was taken and she said it was meant for me. We instantly connected over our love for serving in KIDS with kindergarteners and both being veterans. Meeting her for the first time felt like reconnecting with an old friend. We shared about our families and the pride she felt as a mother was radiant. She loved people and loved them well! It’s because of her I returned spending time in the Word after a simple invitation to join her Bible study small group. She gifted me with Threadbare Prayer knowing it would bless my life just as she had. Her legacy knows no bounds! I am forever grateful. Blessings always.

Brianne Ottaviano said...

I've been trying to put into words what a wonderful woman Lynda Jones Aldridge was. There are so many precious memories I have with and so many of them include serving in some capacity. When I first met her she was leading Sunday school for many years on Sunday mornings. So many kids have been under her wisdom and influence including my own. She invited me to serve in trees with her and that was a blessing to watch and learn from her years of experience. We spent so many Wednesday night dinners chatting and serving with kids. She never missed an opportunity to share Jesus with anyone.

As a friend she showed up whenever she was available. Her presence blessed everyone she met. She listened to them and shared her life experience and loved so freely! Everyone she met heard about "her" Jesus.

Lynda loved on my own family in a deeply personal way. Lynda played with my kids so I could unpack when we moved. She held my son in the hospital so I could take a break for hot food after days in the hospital. She was one of the first people I called when I didn't understand what God was doing in my life especially when things seemed impossible... she always pointed me to Jesus. She even "happened" to be at the doctor's office when I was in excurciating pain and needed someone to hold my hand...and she did . She called ,encouraged,and advocated. She spent several Christmas dinners with us and became family. She invited me into a Bible study when I felt lonely during the quarantine of 2020. She offered to sit with me in a difficult meeting and meant it. She empowered me with wisdom and ALWAYS pointed me to Jesus.

She cared deeply for her family and friends. While I rejoice that she with Jesus whom she loved with all her heart , I am heartbroken when I think of any time I will not see her again. She leaves a Lynda shaped hole in my life, in the life of her family, my family and in her friends' lives.

Wade Aldridge and Leah A Mercado I will praying for you during the incredibly difficult time and want you to know that you are family to us too. We love you and will be there for you the way your mom was there for us.

Her wisdom , love and friendship will never be forgotten. I will miss you every day Lynda! I know I will see you again someday in heaven but I hope I can love others like you and share Jesus until He calls me home.

Well done ,Good and faithful servant ! Lynda you are greatly missed !
(Reposted from my Facebook post )

Kim said...

Lynda, now that I have retired from working after 40 yrs & 10 mos., raised my 3 kids & grands, I am working on my bucket list items & 1 of those was to catch up with my college roomies & hallmates and there you were from our good ole ECU Pirate Nation days. We were lucky enough to be in Ralph L. Fike HS together & then good ole Umstead Dorm too! I remember us burning the midnight oil with art projects & studying for tests. I hate that I missed catching up with you. But Devera, your roomie gave me an update with the most recent being your recent departure. God Bless you, love & condolences to your son Wade & daughter Leah, those wonderful grandkids & of course your grand dogs too! Keep everybody straight up there in heaven & grateful you are now fully healed & in God's loving arms.

❤❣
Kim Aussant Bell