Linda Lou Schneider

Linda Lou Schneider, a beloved daughter, sister, mother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2024. Born on February 8, 1943, in Mesa, Arizona, to James W. “Bill” Boyce and Florence E. Boyce, Linda lived a life full of kindness, resilience, and boundless love.

A graduate of Simis Elementary School, Central High School, and the Phoenix Academy of Cosmetology in 1963, Linda began her career as a hairdresser and cosmetologist where she touched countless lives with her warmth, talent, and care.

Her adventurous spirit led her to marry Horst Schneider, a German naval fighter pilot, in 1966. They moved to Germany. Their union, though tragically short-lived due to Horst’s untimely death in a training accident in 1968, gave rise to their son, Dirk, whose life became a testament to Linda’s enduring strength and compassion.

Despite her heartache, Linda returned to Phoenix. In 1973, Linda briefly travelled to Germany to be closer to her extended family but soon found her way back to Phoenix. In 2013, she retired and moved to Prescott, where she embraced the beauty of the woods with her cherished pets until she moved back to Phoenix in 2022.

Linda was known for her generosity, often placing the needs of others before her own. Whether living in the serene woods of Prescott or the rugged beauty of North Phoenix, Linda’s home was always a sanctuary for animals, both domestic and wild. Her unwavering dedication to animal welfare was evident in the way she nurtured and cared for every living being that crossed her path.

Linda’s independent spirit and unique charm was legendary. She was never shy about sharing her opinions. Her honesty and witty sense of humor brought laughter and light to those fortunate enough to know her. Linda’s home was a haven of warmth and joy, always stocked with potato chips, Pepsi, and her homemade rice crispy treats she called “uden duden”. She took immense pride in her grandson, Georg Schneider, celebrating his many achievements both in and outside of the pool.

Mrs. Schneider is survived by her son, Dirk Schneider (Anke) of Frankfurt, Germany; two brothers, James W. Boyce, Jr. (Deanne) of Phoenix and Joseph. M. Boyce of Honolulu; sister, Pat D. Larner of Vero Beach, Florida; and her grandson, Georg Schneider of Frankfurt, Germany. She was preceded in death by her parents and her half-brother, George Burly Mason (2015). 

In honoring Linda’s extraordinary life, the family invites donations to the Alzheimer’s Association. Linda Lou Schneider’s impact on the world was as vast and enduring as the beauty of nature she so deeply cherished. Her memory will continue to inspire and touch those who knew and loved her.