Linda Cecile Stitt

Linda Cecile Stitt (nee Timmermann), a devoted public servant, community advocate, and member of the Stockbridge Munsee Band of Mohican Indians, passed away on September 19, 2025, in Madison, Wisconsin. She was 81 years old.

Born on July 31, 1944, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Linda's early years were rooted in a strong educational foundation. She attended Catholic grade school and graduated from West Division High School before continuing her studies at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Her academic path initially led her to consider teaching Latin at the high school level-a pursuit she later set aside as her life took a different course by virtue of meeting Bert Stitt, her husband to-be, in an English Class at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Linda married Bert in Detroit, Michigan on June 28th, 1969.

Linda's journey took her to New York City and Detroit before she returned to Milwaukee. Where, alongside her husband, she became an integral part of the founding of the Brady Street Festivals-an effort that reflected her enduring commitment to cultural celebration and community engagement.

In 1979, Linda and her husband, Bert, relocated to Madison, Wisconsin. It was there that she found her professional home at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Student Union. Beginning as a Program Advisor and eventually retiring as a Senior Administrative Program Specialist with the Wisconsin Union/Social Education department, Linda left an indelible mark on campus life. She was especially proud of her work in developing the Multicultural Education Program-a testament to her dedication to inclusivity and social awareness.

Throughout her career and beyond, Linda was widely recognized for her leadership and service. Her accolades include being named Outstanding Young Woman at the University of Wisconsin in 1978 and receiving the Women of Color Award in 1997. In 2024 Linda was honored with the Community Visioning Award by the Center for Community Stewardship. These honors reflect only a portion of Linda's impact; she was a respected figure whose contributions continue to resonate across the community.

Linda is lovingly remembered by her sisters Theresa Gralewicz and Francine Barachy; brothers Howard, Conrad, and Alan Timmermann; sisters-in-law Olivia Stitt (Pat), Pauline Stitt (Ron), Peggy Stitt (Sam), Leah Antoniewicz (Robert), Esther Davis (George); brothers-in-law James Schwartz Sr. (Karon), Terry Stitt (Shirley) and Michael Stitt (Christine); as well as several generations of nieces and nephews who carry forward her legacy.

She is preceded in death by her parents Howard N. and Henrietta (Brushel) Timmermann; sister, Olive Timmermann; brothers Joseph and Price Timmermann; brother-in-law Jim Barachy and sisters-in-law Annette Timmermann and Shelia

Timmermann, father and mother-in-law Samuel and Jewel Stitt; brothers-in-law Pat Stitt and Ron Stitt; sisters-in-law Karon Schwartz, Nancy Miller, and Christine Stitt.

Linda's life was one marked by purpose, perseverance, and profound connection to community. Her memory will continue to inspire those who knew her-and many more who benefit from the programs she helped shape.

May her memory bring comfort to all who mourn her passing.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.