Linda Diane Curnutte

Linda Diane (Anderson) Curnutte August 22, 1947 -October 20, 2024 A devoted mother and cherished member of her community, passed away after a prolonged illness leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication to youth development through her involvement in the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of America. Born in Ashland, Kentucky, to Charles and Anita Anderson, Linda graduated from Paul Blazer High School in 1964. During her school years, she served as Drum Major at Coles Junior High in 1961, a role that reflected her early leadership and vibrant spirit. Linda’s passion for scouting began early, and in 1974 she helped form the Cub Scout Pack 130 at Ironville Elementary School. Her commitment to scouting was recognized with numerous accolades, including the Coach and Counselor Development Leader of the Year in 1974 and the Scouters Training Award from the Tri-State Area Council in 1981. She was particularly proud of earning the Boy Scout Wood Badge, the highest level of adult training in the Boy Scouts of America. Equally devoted to Girl Scouts, Linda received the Appreciation Pin in 1978 for her work in Boyd County, and in 1983, she earned the Thanks Badge, the highest award for adult volunteers. In 1993, she achieved GSUSA National Trainers Certification after training at the Edith Macy Training Center in New York, a testament to her commitment to youth programming and leadership development. Linda was instrumental in organizing high-level programming for Girl Scouts in the Ashland area. As part of the KOV Program Committee, she helped create lasting programs like the Bake Off, which began in 1978 and continues to this day. She also coordinated large events, including a Huntington Mall sleepover, where over 500 girls participated. Outside of scouting, Linda pursued her passion for nursing, earning her degree from Ashland Community College in 1986 and later a BS in Nursing from Bellarmine College in 1999. She was a member of the Pinnacle Honor Society and went on to serve as the Director of Licensing and Regulations for the Commonwealth of Kentucky and the Director of Nursing Services for Franklin Manor. Her dedication to helping others extended through her work with the American Red Cross and being honored as a Kentucky Colonel in 1986. She traveled extensively with both the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, leading children on adventures across the country, from Washington D.C. to New Mexico, making a lasting impact on the lives of young people. Linda is survived by her son, Carl Curnutte III and his husband John L. Buford, and her daughter, Mendy Reihs and her husband Jeff Reihs, all of whom she cherished. She was preceded in death by her brother, Charles Anderson, and her sister, Patricia Fultz. She leaves behind her grandchild Brandan Wade Taylor and wife Madison and great grandchildren Alexus Taylor, Olivia Taylor, Gunner Taylor, and Orion Taylor, who will always remember her for her love and unwavering support. Linda will be remembered for her selflessness, her dedication to family, and her extraordinary contributions to scouting and nursing. A memorial service will take place on Friday, November 1, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. at the Ashland Cemetery mausoleum. Services will be officiated by Jimm Smedley and honors provided by the Nurse Honor Guard of the River Cities. Immediately following the memorial service, a celebration of life will be held at The Mill 1537b Winchester Avenue, Ashland, Kentucky. All are welcomed. Arrangements are under the direction of Miller Funeral Home in Ashland, Kentucky. "In lieu of flowers, Linda's family asks contributions be made to Girl Scouts of Kentucky's Wilderness Road at www.gskentucky.org/support in memory of Linda's legacy of kindness and compassion to continue to inspire all who knew her."

Linda Diane Curnutte

August 22, 1947 - October 20, 2024