Linda Fay Smith (Keys) Elder, 82 of Mattapan, Massachusetts departed this life on Wednesday February 11, 2026 following a brief illness. She was born in Laurel, Mississippi on June 6,1943, the daughter of the late Cassie Smith and James "Jack" Keys. From an infant to the age of twelve she was raised by her maternal grandmother Viola Smith. After the death of her grandmother, Linda was adopted into the family of her aunt and uncle the late Joe Nathan and Jacqueline Smith of Erie Pennsylvania.

Her education began in Laural Mississippi at the historical Nora Davis Elementary School and continued in the Public School System of Erie, Pennsylvania where she attended Washington Elementary; graduating from East Junior/Senior High School. Following graduation, Linda and five of her closest friends left Erie for Boston, Massachusetts seeking greater opportunities and employment.  It was there she met and married the love of her life, Eddie Ted Elder, her soulmate, and the father of her four children Anthony, Larry, Wendy, and Wanda.

Linda served faithfully for over 20 years with the New England Telephone System of Boston, where she built a reputation for reliability, professionalism, and dedication. After retiring from the telephone company, she embraced a new chapter of purpose and service by returning to school and becoming the Certified Owner/Operator of Linda's Child Care Service. Through her daycare, she poured her nurturing spirit into the lives of countless children, offering a safe, loving, and structured environment that reflected her deep love and care for others.

She began her walk God in her youth. Linda and her husband were members of Bethlehem Apostolic Faith Church of God in Dorchester, Massachusetts, under the leadership of Bishop William Perry Roberts. They later united with the Charles Street African Methodist Episcopal Church of Dorchester, Massachusetts where the Rev. Dr. Gregory G. Groover Sr, is the Pastor. She lived out her faith with humility, kindness, and a heart that welcomed everyone.

She was also an avid cake baker and decorator, known for turning simple ingredients into beautiful expressions of love. Whether for birthdays, holidays, or family gatherings, her cakes were more than desserts; they were celebrations of togetherness. Linda also found peace and fulfillment in knitting and crocheting, crafting pieces that carried her warmth into the hands and homes of others. Her love for antiquing reflected her appreciation for history, craftsmanship, and the stories behind treasured objects.

In a tender reflection of their unbreakable bond, her beloved husband, Eddie Ted Elder, transitioned on February 18, 2026; exactly one week from the date of her transition.  Their closely timed homegoing remind us that the love they shared on earth continued as they crossed from time into eternity, united in spirit. Their departures, so closely joined, stands as a testament to the deep love, devotion, and unbreakable bond they shared throughout their lives.

She is preceded in death by her parents and grandparents; sons Anthony Elder and Army Specialist Larry Elder; three brothers, Charles Moore, Dwight Allen Smith Sr. and Gregory Grayson; three sisters Evelyn Diane McDonald, Helen Moore Brown and Sharon Graves. She leaves to cherish her love and memories two daughters Wendy Elder of Weymouth, Massachusetts and Wanda Moffett (Anthony) of Gainesville, Florida; nine sisters and six brothers; nine grandchildren; five great grandchildren, her In-laws, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and her church family from Bethlehem Apostolic Faith Church of God who served her and her husband until they transitioned from this life.  She will be truly missed by all who love her.

Linda's life is a testament to the beauty of everyday faithfulness. Through her work, her artistry, her entrepreneurship, and her devotion to family, she leaves behind a legacy of love, dignity, and enduring influence.