Linda Lou McMahan Phillips

Linda Lou McMahan Phillips, 81, of Sylva, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on July 30, 1944, in Sylva, North Carolina, Linda was the daughter of the late James Adam McMahan and Leona Cabe McMahan. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Clyde Phillips, and her children, Ricky Hedden, Regina Hedden and Rita Hedden.

Linda leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory forever; her children, Ronnie Hedden (Lynn), Randy Hedden (Melanie), and Retha Phillips (Aaron); her sister, Wanda Farley; her brother, Bob McMahan; and several nieces and nephews.

She was a proud grandmother to Cody (Lisa), Jacob (Gertrude), Miranda, Haley (Dakota), Katelynn, Kaylee, McClay (Maddie), Abreonna (Anthony), Jessie, TJ (Myra), and Josh. Linda was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Anna, Emily, Beau, Aria, Lawson, Lakeland, Annalee, Alani, Oakley, Lily, and Waylon, and she joyfully awaited the arrival of baby Maylee.

Linda worked for several years at Buster Brown and Walmart, where she was known for her strong work ethic and kind heart. Alongside her late husband, she traveled throughout much of the United States as a truck driver, creating treasured memories and adventures along the way.

She found happiness in life’s simple pleasures – sitting on her front porch, tending to her flowers, and watching the birds. Linda had a caring spirit and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Her warmth, strength, and unwavering love for her family will be remembered by all who knew and loved her.

A funeral service will be held in the Chapel of Appalachian Funeral Services on Sunday, June 28, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Fairview Memorial Gardens.The family will receive friends on Saturday, June 27, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. 

The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation for the special friendship, love and support of Suzanne and Keith Allison.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation or to the cancer center of your choice.

Serving as pallbearers will be Ronnie Hedden, Randy Hedden, Chris Houston, McClay Phillips, TJ Hedden, and Josh Phillips.

Linda’s memory will live on forever in the hearts of those she touched throughout her life.