Linda Jane Staley

With warm hearts, we remember Linda Jane (Thomas) Staley, who passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 15, 2026. Born on May 6, 1945, in Fort Morgan, CO, she was the cherished daughter of Clifford and Alice (Fiscus) Thomas and was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Fort Morgan.

Linda spent her early years on a dryland wheat farm in New Raymer, CO, where she thrived in a close-knit community. She attended a one-room schoolhouse. After completing 8th grade, she rode the bus to Fort Morgan for her high school years and proudly graduated from Fort Morgan High School in 1963.

In 1962, Linda experienced a wonderful turning point in her life when she met Ronald Staley. They were married on September 22, 1963, at Trinity Lutheran Church, beginning a beautiful journey together. They bought an 80-acre irrigated farm west of town, where they cultivated not only crops but also a vibrant family life. Together, they raised corn, alfalfa, cattle, sheep, horses, and three wonderful children: Michael Troy, Rhonda Sue, and Scott Alan.

As a devoted mother and partner, Linda brought joy and energy to everything she did. She volunteered at her children’s schools and in Sunday School, helping instill a sense of community and spiritual growth in her children. She loved being hands-on with their 4-H projects, showing them the value of hard work while creating lasting memories. She was also the loudest cheerleader at all her children's sporting events. On the farm, she was Ron’s right-hand woman—whether driving the truck during the harvest season or sorting cattle, Linda approached every task with a smile and a can-do spirit (well, most of the time, ha-ha).

Linda was a kind and gentle person who found happiness in listening to others laugh and share their stories. Her warm presence could light up any room!

Linda survived by her loving children, Mike (Rhonda) of Fort Morgan, Rhonda Bentz of Windsor, and Scott of Fort Morgan. She was also the proud grandmother of six grandchildren: Kaleb Staley (Kelsey), Kendal Staley (Whitney), Kyrie` Bentz, Kylee Bentz, Ethan Staley (Holly), and Ty Staley. She loved watching her great-grandchildren play and laugh: Kase and Karson Staley, Cole, Cheyenne, and Montana Staley. Linda is also survived by her sister-in-law, Eileen Thomas; daughter-in-law, Michelle Staley; and stepsister, Barbara Bunyea. She took tremendous pride in her family, who filled her life with love and laughter.

Linda was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 53 years, Ronald Staley; her parents, Clifford and Alice Thomas; her brother, Wayne Thomas; and her granddaughter, Alice Bentz. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, and she will be remembered for her kindness, strength, and love. We will meet you again someday at the TREE OF LIFE.

A service will be held Saturday, November 14, at 10:00 a.m. at Heer Mortuary, 225 East Platte Ave. Fort Morgan. A celebration of life will follow at The Block in the Larkspur room, 19592 E 8th Ave, Fort Morgan, CO 80701, from 11:30 am to 2:00 pm. Let’s celebrate Linda’s love for baking! Bring a HOMEMADE dessert to share at the reception, if you would like, and let’s indulge in sweet treats that she would have adored.