Linda Bavis Obituary

Linda Carol Bavis (formerly Crew), 79, of Eldersburg, Maryland, devoted wife, mother, sister, sister-in-law, grandmother, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at Frederick Health Hospital surrounded by family. Linda was born on July 29, 1945, in Baltimore to the late Robert W. Bilson and Ethel V. (Stierhoff) Bilson. She attended grade school at St. Benedict's School, followed by two years at Seton High School and two years at St. Peter The Apostle Business School, all in Baltimore. Linda's life was grounded in faith, family, and fun. A longtime member of Friendship Baptist Church, she found joy and strength in her spiritual community. She was an active member of the church congregation and a Bible study group. She raised three children from her first marriage to Charles Anthony Crew, Sr., who passed away earlier this year. Linda often said her children, Alisa, Carol, and Charles "Chuck", were her life, as she modeled sacrifice, resilience, and unconditional love throughout their lives. Whether cheering them on from the sidelines or offering quiet comfort during tough times, she was, as her astrological sign attests, a lioness who was fiercely protective of her cubs. She admired her children's independence and individuality and encouraged them at every turn, shepherding them into strong, capable adults. Once her children were in school, Linda received a nursing certificate from Carroll Community College and worked as a nurse's aide and activities director at Fairhaven and Eldersburg Eldercare, treating residents with the same compassion and dignity she would've wanted for herself…and sneaking a little fun into the calendar, as well! For 27 years, she was the loving wife of Francis "Frank" Louis Bavis, Jr., who preceded her in death in 2019. Linda and Frank were seasoned country two-steppers and could often be found on the dance floor at the Moose Lodge where they first met. She and Frank loved to eat, and their friends responded by gifting them a growing collection of pig figurines. Whenever family and friends gathered, steamed crabs, her infamous crab dip, and other seafood dishes were usually involved. Linda and Frank enjoyed spending time with family and friends at their place at Beach Harbor, where she watched Frank teach grandsons Sean and Ryan to boat and fish. Linda also enjoyed doing arts and crafts, such as painting and collages, with her grandsons. She and Frank often visited his family in Indiana, as well. Her circle of friends, fondly known as "The Gadabouts", enjoyed trips, entertainment, friendship, and laughter together, ensuring their senior years were just as lively as when they were younger. She was grateful for the special bond she shared with her brother-in-law, Tom, especially after the passing of her sister, Donna. A wonderful homemaker, Linda delighted in decorating for the holidays. She always had a place at the table for a new friend and knew everyone at the senior apartments where she lived. She is survived by her children Alisa Marie Sever (Dennis Sever), Carol Ann McLean (Scott McLean), and Charles Anthony Crew, Jr.; grandsons Sean Charles McLean and Ryan Anthony McLean; brother-in-law Thomas Dudek; nephews William "Bill" Anthony Dudek (Anne Colvin-Dudek) and David Thomas Dudek (Sarah Luebehusen Dudek); nieces Michelle Lynn Davies (Brian Davies) and Dannette Noel Keeler (Scott Keeler); step-granddaughters LeeAnn Carr (Jason Carr) and Joleen Surber; and many great nieces and nephews, extended family members, and friends who will remember her fondly. She was preceded in death by her sister, Donna Marie Dudek, and stepdaughter Patricia "Patsy" Nail. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Haight Funeral Home & Chapel, 6416 Sykesville Road, Sykesville, MD, with her pastor, Rev. Mark Massey, officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 1:00 PM, prior to the service. A reception will follow at approximately 3:00 PM at E. W. Beck's Restaurant, 7565 Main Street, Sykesville. Linda would love for you to wear something red in her honor. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the American Lung Association (www.action.lung.org).