SEND FLOWERS
Obituary
Linda Marie Leggitt, 78, of Canton, Michigan, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2026. She was the devoted wife of the late Ronald Leggitt, a loving mother, cherished grandmother, great-grandmother, and the heart of her family. A beloved matriarch, Linda’s memory will live on through the generations
Born in Detroit, Michigan, to Raymond and Jeanette Kring, Linda was the oldest of four siblings. She shared a close, lifelong bond with her two brothers and sister. She was also a loving sister-in-law and aunt.
Linda lived a full and interesting life. Early in her career, she worked for Litton Industries in California, where she was one of six people to help build components for the guidance systems used in NASA’s historic Viking Mars program.
Linda later spent 30 years of her professional life with Ford Motor Company at the Ford Parts Redistribution Center in Brownstown Township. She began her career there as a forklift driver, a role that was still uncommon for women in the 1970s. She faced resistance from some who believed the job was not appropriate for a woman, but she persevered. She eventually moved into plant communications and media, where she produced daily broadcast news for employees, along with photographs and video, and handled a variety of communications projects.
It was also at Ford that Linda met her husband, Ronald. They shared 37 years together. She remained with Ford until her retirement.
Her years with Ford sparked a lasting interest in Henry Ford and the history of Ford Motor Company. That interest grew into a lifelong passion for local history and preservation. Linda volunteered at Greenfield Village, gave tours at the Henry Ford Estate, was active in the Dearborn Historical Society, and wrote newsletters and other historical materials. She was also part of a small group that helped begin the restoration of the Piquette Avenue Plant, a historic site that would eventually become the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant Museum.
Her editorial experience proved useful one final time when she reviewed and contributed to this obituary, making sure the details met her approval.
Linda enjoyed being involved in activities that brought people together. She was active in her church and participated in various ministries and service activities, particularly during the years when Ronald served as a pastor.
Linda was creative and curious by nature. She loved crafting, entertaining, visiting museums, and creating beautiful spaces. She had a remarkable talent for decorating, and her home was always thoughtfully arranged, especially for the holidays. She had a gift for turning ordinary occasions into something memorable.
Those who knew Linda will remember her generosity and her ability to make people feel special.
She is survived by her daughters, Angela (John) Penn and Lisa (Michael) Marshall-Okdie; her stepdaughters, Kathy (Tony) Nau and Tracy Chovanec; six grandchildren; one great-grandchild; two brothers; a sister; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who loved her dearly.
In accordance with Linda’s wishes, she will be cremated and laid to rest alongside her husband, Ronald Leggitt, at Michigan Memorial Cemetery. At her request, there will be no funeral or memorial service.
Linda leaves behind not only the people who loved her, but also the memories, traditions, history, and beautiful touches that made so many people feel special. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
