Linda Nichols Hathaway, affectionately known as “Nana”, who was born on August 31, 1937, in Galion, Ohio, passed away peacefully in her home on June 29, 2026, in Leesburg, Virginia. She was 88 years old. 

Linda was the beloved daughter of Russell Nichols and Sarah Fitzgerald and grew up alongside her brother Dan Nichols (Judy). Her childhood in Galion, Ohio was filled with vibrant moments that shaped her into the remarkable woman she became. During her high school years, Linda met William Hoyt Hathaway, who would become the love of her life. Their story began when Linda was a freshman and Hoyt was a senior star athlete. Their connection deepened as they both attended Ohio University—Hoyt excelling in football and baseball while Linda shone as a cheerleader and served on the homecoming court. These shared experiences laid the foundation for their enduring partnership.

Linda and Hoyt built a beautiful life together and were married for 42 years before his passing in 2000. They were blessed with three children: Scot Hathaway (Bonnie), Marcy Ball (Gary), and Tod Hathaway (Kim). Tragically, Tod died of cancer in 2007, a loss Linda never fully recovered from. Despite the loss of Tod, Linda’s family continued to grow with seven grandchildren (Taylor, Bret, Zach, Ryan, Sarah, Andrew, and Lauren) and eleven great-grandchildren (Lucas, Ava, Anson, Will, Brooks, Ivy, Landon, Hunter, Cooper, Everett, and Noah) who brought immense joy to her life. She was expecting her twelfth great-grandchild in late August of this year.

Throughout her life, Linda’s warmth and devotion to her family and community were unwavering. Linda's big heart led her to becoming a volunteer at local hospitals and raising money for local charities; of note, Linda was a significant fundraiser for the Adler Center hospice house in Aldie, Virginia. She will be fondly remembered by all who knew her for the love she so generously shared.

A Memorial Gathering to honor Linda’s life will be held on August 1, at 10:30 am at Our Savior’s Way Lutheran Church, located at 43115 Waxpool Road, Ashburn, VA 20148. Family will be available to greet those attending beginning at 9:30 am. Linda will be joining Hoyt at Arlington National Cemetery at a date to be determined.

May Linda’s memory bring comfort to those who loved her and inspire them to cherish their own bonds with family and friends. We will be forever grateful to her long-term caregiver “Mama”.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to CapitalCaring.org in memory of Linda to support families in need of hospice assistance.