Linda Kay (Cothron) Ventura

Linda Kay Ventura, 75, of Indianapolis, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on April 25, 1950, in Beech Grove to the late Charles Raymond and Donna Jean (McClain) Cothron.

Linda attended St. Roch Catholic School and graduated from Bishop Chartrand High School with the class of 1968. She went on to build a meaningful career in public service, working in the Governor’s Office for the State of Indiana under Governors Evan Bayh, Frank O’Bannon, and Joseph Kernan before her retirement. She also held a special place in her heart for the Julian Center, where she had worked and developed a deep appreciation for its mission.

A woman of extraordinary kindness and generosity, Linda was known for giving freely and without hesitation. She supported countless charitable causes and never turned away a request for help. Her giving spirit was matched only by her devotion to her family. Raising her four children on her own from their early years, she created a home filled with love, stability, and unwavering support. She had a heart of gold and was truly one of the nicest people anyone could hope to meet.

Thoughtful in every way, Linda was known for sending cards for every occasion—birthdays, holidays, milestones, and simple moments of encouragement. Just this past Valentine’s Day, she mailed cards to each of her grandchildren, a small gesture that perfectly captured her loving nature.

Linda adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were her pride and joy. In retirement, she cherished the time she spent caring for her great-grandsons, Lukas and Jace, with whom she shared a special bond. She loved taking her grandchildren to Holiday World, going to the movies with them, and enjoying the simple pleasure of sitting outside on her swing. Her lifelong friendships, many dating back to her grade school days, were another source of joy and comfort throughout her life.

Linda will be deeply missed by her loving family and the many friends whose lives she touched with her warmth, generosity, and gentle spirit.

She is survived by her children, Jason Ventura, Amy (Kirk) Driskell, Gina (Steve) Emmert, and Erica Roganti; her siblings, Doug Cothron, Kathy Smith, Chuck (Marla) Cothron, Mark (Peggy) Cothron, Mary Jo (Spyros) Pappas, Michael (Kim) Cothron, Tommy (Heidi) Cothron, Sharon (Mike) Larsh, and Kim (Tony Botos) Cothron; her grandchildren, Adam (Olivia), Blake, Emily, Bradley, Brooklyn, Brock, Emma, Steven, Addison, and Bella; and her great-grandsons, Lukas and Jace.

Family and friends will gather on Wednesday, February 25, from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at St. Roch Catholic Church, 3600 S. Pennsylvania St. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12 noon, with Fr. Douglas Hunter presiding. Inurnment will follow at Calvary Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Julian Center, the American Cancer Society, or a charity of your choosing in Linda’s memory. Envelopes will be available at the church.

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