Linda Kay Swaney Byars August 8, 1941 – July 20, 2024

A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Linda Kay Swaney Byars passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family on July 20, 2024, marking her 61st wedding anniversary.

Linda's life was a testament to love, devotion, and creativity, which she consistently shared with her family. She is survived by her husband, Dan Byars of Camden, and her daughter, Claire Byars Crowe of Dallas, as well as her two sisters, Jean Palmer and Carolyn Masek of Hot Springs. Preceded in death by her son, Grant, Linda is also survived by her five adoring grandchildren and six precious great-grandchildren: granddaughters Alexandra Byars (John Relton) of Dallas and Avery Ray (Jacob Ray) of Hot Springs; grandsons Rae (Abigail Crowe), Byars and Luke Crowe, all of Dallas; and great-grandchildren John and Lillian Crowe of Dallas; Ford Relton of Dallas; and Rivers, Rowan and Ranger Ray of Hot Springs. Her family was her greatest joy, and she dedicated her life to nurturing and caring for them.

Linda, born on August 8, 1941, in Hot Springs, Arkansas, to Carl and Iris Swaney, was the middle child of three sisters. Her sisters lovingly stood by her side during her final days.  Hot Springs always held a special place in her heart, filled with cherished memories and treasured family experiences.

Linda graduated from the University of Arkansas in 1964. It was during college that she met the man she would marry and with whom she would spend the next sixty-one years. After her husband's military tour in the U.S Army, they returned to Dan's hometown of Camden to join the family business. She served as an officer and advisor in the family business, Byars Oil Company.

Linda's vibrant spirit was reflected in her many passions. She was a cook, a gardener, a talented painter, a traveler - most often to her favorite place, the lake house - and an exercise-enthusiast, including tennis and yoga.  For fifty-two years, she and her friend, Becky, enjoyed long daily walks, weather-permitting.

Throughout her life, she expressed her creativity in many ways, but one was her exquisite flower arrangements, a skill honed while helping her mother's floral design business in Hot Springs. Her talent creating floral blankets for winning horses during Oaklawn's racing seasons was a testament to her artistic flair and dedication.

Linda loved her Lord and creator. She was a dedicated member of First Presbyterian Church, where she shared her talents and love generously. During recent years, she relished weekly bible studies with her friend, Mary, as well as journaling about scripture and note-taking after sermons.

Linda's warmth, kindness, and devotion touched the lives of everyone she met. She was a compassionate friend, a loving wife, and a nurturing mother and grandmother. Her absence leaves a profound void, but her legacy of love and generosity will continue to inspire her family for years to come.

A memorial service to celebrate Linda's life will be held on Saturday, July 27th, at 11 am at First Presbyterian Church, 318 Greening Street in Camden. A gathering in the Fellowship Hall will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to First Presbyterian Church of Camden or a charity of your choice in Linda's honor.