Linda Jean Hepler

Linda Jean Canion Hepler went to be with the Lord on Friday, July 18, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on December 21, 1956, in Huntsville, Arkansas, to Jack and Rose Canion. On August 10, 1979, she married Jim D. Hepler in Huntsville. Together, they worked tirelessly to build a home and a life rooted in faith, family, and the land—eventually settling in the Aurora community, near both lifelong friends and beloved relatives.

The beautiful hills of the Ozarks were always home to Linda. She was a quiet, hardworking woman who preferred the peacefulness of home over the noise of town or crowds. Her gentle nature and deep love for animals were evident in her care for her many dogs, cats, chickens, and even a pair of pet cows.

Linda was happiest in the simple moments: working in her yard, sitting on the back porch with her pets, and taking in the view of the mountains beyond. Her faith was central to her life. She and Jim met in church, and for more than 30 years they served together at Lower Wharton Creek Church, building a ministry rooted in love and service.

She is survived by her devoted husband of nearly 46 years, Jim D. Hepler, of the home; her son James (Lauren) Hepler of Huntsville; her daughter Dana (Jared) Phillips of Huntsville; and three grandsons whom she adored and was immensely proud of—Fischer Adam Phillips, Graham Thomas Hepler, and Liam King Hepler.

She is also survived by her mother, Rose Canion of Witter; her siblings:

• Wanda (Carmon) Carson of Witter

• Anne (Marty) Thurman of Witter

• Cathie (John Randy) Smith of Huntsville

• J.B. (Tina) Canion of Witter

She was preceded in death by her father, Jack Canion.

Visitation will be held Monday, July 21, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at Madison County Funeral Service Chapel  4373 South Main St in Hindsville.

A Celebration of Life will take place Tuesday, July 22, at 10:00 a.m. at Lower Campground United Baptist Church in Marble, with Brother Bo Bailey officiating.

Interment will follow at Venus Mountain Cemetery.

Pallbearers: Jared Phillips, Fischer Phillips, J.B. Canion, Carmon Carson, Marty Thurman, and Randy Smith

Honorary Pallbearers: Graham Hepler, Liam Hepler, Tim Hepler, Frank Bohrn, and Rick Daniels

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Loving Choices, a ministry supporting mothers and families in Northwest Arkansas—a cause Linda quietly supported for many years.

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