Anyone reading these words will have known Linda, will have had vivid conversations with her, will remember her special laughter, her acid commentary on certain politicians, and her extraordinarily quick wit. Her joy in human connection was clear, and she always welcomed friends and visitors to her classic B & B house on Broadway, always with great warmth. 

Many of you will know of the hold that Mexico, and the Latin world in general, had on her heart. She was most at home when living in or visiting the Latin world, and of her dearest friends were Mexican. Do you recall her library? A veritable definitive collection of books covering essentially every aspect of Mexican culture and history, reflecting the depth of her passion and the reach of her intellect.

There were dark places in her life. Migraines were a lifelong curse, arising too frequently and causing too many disruptions for complete ease. And a chapter in her early years in Mexico was marked by profound loss. Everyone's life has a few demons; Linda did not allow hers from engaging with life, friendship, or humor.

Any attempt at eulogizing Linda or summarizing the important elements of her life would not be adequate without mentioning the profound degree of her generosity. She gave unquestioningly, without hesitation, to those in need. And without much regard for her ability to give. We'll never know who all benefited from this spirit of giving - Linda simply wouldn't advertise her generosity.

Think now of what Linda gave to each of us; she shared the best of herself, unstintingly gave, asking nothing in return but our thoughts and stories and feelings - the very things she gave to us.

As the limitations of her health closed in around her, she relied on Ben Munoz's love and care, and the constant attention of her cat (must I say it? 'Kitty Butt', the beloved rescue cat).

But even in the weeks and months before her passing, she retained those elements that made her uniquely and wonderfully, Linda Irene Nyquist.

She is missed, deeply.