Linda Marie (nee Havlik) Bovich, 78, passed away on November 22, 2025, at St. Elizabeth's

Hospital in O'Fallon, Ill., due to complications from lung cancer. Born on August 1, 1947, in McKeesport, Penn., she was the daughter of George and Elizabeth (nee Quinn) Havlik. Linda was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Jerry Havlik.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and nurse, Linda was known for her unwavering

support of those she loved. Her greatest passion was her family; she was always there for them when they needed her. Linda had an extraordinary capacity for love and compassion, seeing the inherent dignity in every individual, particularly those who were sick or elderly. She dedicated her time and resources to helping those in need, from homeless individuals to her favorite charity, St. Jude Children's Hospital. When she wasn't busy caring for others, she loved reading, trips to the casino, home shopping, and watching game shows and reality TV.

After graduating from the Pittsburgh Hospital School of Nursing, Linda embarked on a 35-year career as a Registered Nurse. She was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force and stationed at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss., where she met her future husband, Stephen. They married on June 19, 1971, in McKeesport, Penn., and began their life together. Following her separation from the Air Force, Linda devoted 29 years to supporting Stephen's military career, traveling the world while nurturing their family. Her contributions were recognized in 1988 when their family was honored as an Air Force Great American Family.

Throughout their military journey, Linda continued to work as a registered nurse. She began her career in medical-surgical nursing and later served as a school nurse in the Republic of the Philippines and the Netherlands. Ultimately, she specialized in geriatric nursing. Linda was renowned for providing exceptional care for her patients and for her genuine compassion for their well-being.

Linda will be deeply missed by her family and friends. She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Stephen Bovich; her sons, Timothy (Joanne) Bovich and Michael (Lisa) Bovich; her daughters, Colleen (Nick) Petroni and Meaghan Bovich; and her eight beloved grandchildren: Betsy (Greg) Lee, Maddie Bovich, Stuart Bovich, Arya Bovich, Lyra Bovich, Luca Petroni, Stephen Petroni, and Cassie Petroni. She is also survived by her niece, Jan Havlik.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in celebration of Linda's life to St. Jude Children's Hospital in Memphis, Tenn.

Visitation will be held at Wolfersberger Funeral Home, 102 W. Washington St., O'Fallon, Ill., on Thursday, January 15, 2026 from 5 – 8 pm. A Memorial Mass will begin at 11 am, Friday, January 16, 2026 at St. Clare Catholic Church, 1411 Cross St., O'Fallon, Ill., with Rev. James Deiters presiding. Family will receive friends 1 hour prior to Mass at church.