Linda Rae Lybeck, 79, of Baxter, passed away peacefully at Essentia Health – St. Joseph's Medical Center in Brainerd on January 9, 2026.

A Celebration of Linda's Life will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Nelson-Doran Funeral Home in Brainerd.

Linda was born on August 18, 1946, in Brainerd, Minnesota, the daughter of Raymond G. and Bernice L. (Congdon) Johnson. She enjoyed an idyllic childhood growing up on Round Lake as the only daughter—spoiled, or at least very well cared for—by her parents and two brothers.

She graduated from Washington High School in Brainerd in 1965, where she proudly served as a Majorette, and later attended Brainerd Community College (now CLC).

Linda devoted many years to helping others, working as a counselor first at the State Hospital and later at the Port Group Home for Girls. During retirement, she continued to stay busy cleaning homes and lovingly caring for her parents.

Linda was known for her quick wit and sharp sense of humor, as well as her legendary stubborn streak—a trait she happily passed down to her children. She loved gardening and was a wonderful cook, especially known for her boiled dinners and denvers. Above all, Linda cherished time spent with family and friends—whether playing 500, going to the movies with her grandchildren, or calling someone for coffee to start her day off right.

She will be deeply missed by her children, Dana (Randy) Loftis, Dion (Gwen) Lybeck, and David (Kristin) Lybeck; six grandchildren, Preston, Emily, Mariah, Molly, Maguire, and Maxon; three great-grandchildren, Ellanor, Oliver, and Barrett; her brothers, Bernard "Boots" Johnson and Randy "RJ" Johnson; her lifelong friend, Penny Akre; and many extended family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Bernice Johnson.