Linda Hook Obituary

Linda Sue Paxton Hook brought light and compassion to every life she touched. She passed away peacefully on February 11, 2026, in Aiken, South Carolina, at the age of 75.

Born on September 7, 1950, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Linda earned a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master's in Guidance from Southeastern Louisiana University. She spent her career as a school guidance counselor in South Carolina and Connecticut, where she became a trusted presence for students and families navigating difficult times.

Linda shared 56 wonderful years of marriage with her high school sweetheart, Steve Hook. Together they built a family rooted in love and support. She is lovingly remembered by her children: Kevin Hook and his wife Melissa; Megan Wilson and her husband Daniel; Stephanie Zinkerman and her husband David; and Lindsay Hook Robinson and her husband Thane. Linda delighted in being a grandmother to Sage Hook; Kinley and Lyla Wilson; Ella, Ethan, and Cameron Zinkerman; and Evans Hook Robinson. She is also remembered by her brother Jim Paxton and sister Jennifer Spears. She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Martha JoAnne Paxton, and her sister Lisa Raabe.

Her caring nature extended well beyond her career. Linda gave generously of her time to La Leche League, the American Red Cross, American Association of University Women, Daughters of the American Revolution, ACTS (Area Churches Together Serving), Secret Santa programs. She also served as an EMT, Juvenile Arbitrator, and Guardian ad Litem. Linda advocated for mental health through her service on the Aiken Mental Health Board. A faithful member of South Aiken Presbyterian Church, she served as a deacon, Sunday School teacher, youth group leader, and participated in mission trips.

Linda embraced life with vibrant enthusiasm. She loved traveling, sunbathing with a good book in hand, dancing at every opportunity, collecting antiques (always insisting "I'll find a place!"), and decorating with playful touches like rocking horses, flamingos, and giraffes. Those who knew Linda will remember her as kind-hearted, vivacious, loyal, giving, and above all else, deeply caring. Her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched with her generosity of spirit.