Linda Rae (Nichols) Bolinger

Linda Rae (Nichols) Bolinger, passed away on January 16, 2026. Linda leaves behind a
legacy of love, laughter, and fierce devotion to her family.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made directly to Linda’s family.
On August 23, 1948, Linda was born to Carroll and Kathryn Nichols in Knoxville, Iowa.
Linda was funny, spicy, and never afraid to say exactly what she was thinking. She had
a sharp wit and a big heart, and if someone she loved needed help, she would drop
everything without hesitation. Family always came first.
She had a deep love for Elvis Presley, faithfully cheered on the Kansas City Chiefs, and
treasured time spent with those she loved most. Known as the best card player in the
room, Linda was fiercely competitive and rarely let anyone forget it.
Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Carroll and Kathryn Nichols and her
brother, Carroll Nichols Jr.
She is survived by her sister, MaryAnn (Ted) Ward; Sister-in-law, Denise Nichols; her
three daughters, Sharon (Randy) Mattox, Tash Cook, and Mandi Rote; her six
grandchildren, Brandon Brown, Keri (Josh) Emerick, Ashley (Johnny) Cardona, Deja
Cook, Jade Cook, and Willow Cook; and her great-grandchildren, Rylie, Raegen,
Kaylynn, Alic, Izabella, Mya, Gabriel, Arabella, and Finn, all of whom were the pride and
joy of her life.
She will be deeply missed and forever loved. Linda and her family had wished to have
no services.