The first time I met Linda Kennedy, I was a 6 year old first grader. My family moved to Downey in the middle of the school year and it was my first day attending my new school Maude Price. I was nervous and scared about my first day. But, my new principal Mrs. Kennedy was warm and comforting. I liked the sound of her voice. I remember how safe she made me feel as she smiled and welcomed me to my new school. I felt like I could trust her. She held my hand in her right hand and my twin brother's hand in her left hand as she walked us down to the hall to our new classrooms. She even introduced me to two little girls in my new class and asked them to take care of me and play with me on the playground. She made my first day wonderful.

Mrs. Kennedy was such a special principal. She had a gentle sense of humor and had a wonderful laugh. She knew all of the kids by name and she used to walk around the playground at recess. When we saw her across the quad, we would run over to say hello and to get a hug. She truly seemed to be delighted by our childish chatter. It was so fun to know her and to amuse her. I liked my new school Maude Price so much more than my old school - and my new Principal, Mrs. Kennedy was a big reason for that.

Mrs. Kennedy was confident, steady, and reliable. When I was a child, I never questioned her strength and her ability to lead our school. You knew Mrs. Kennedy was in charge and if she needed to handle a crisis, she handled it. Being a female manager now, I am so grateful for having her as a role model for female leadership.

I feel so lucky that my relationship with Mrs. Kennedy didn't end when I moved on from Price elementary to Griffiths. My Mom became a teacher in Downey and developed a very special working relationship with Linda. Because of their friendship, I was able to continue my relationship with her throughout my life. I worked at Ward Elementary as a Teacher's Assistant when Linda was a Principal there. Later, I saw her at lots of social events. She attended my bridal shower when I got married. She even came to see performances that I was in or shows that I directed.

Linda was a special person in my life. I will never forget her laugh. And, her smile. I can remember hearing the sound of her voice when she would say "Oh, Kimberly!" How I will miss her. The love I felt for her is similar to a treasured aunt and close family friend. I wish I could tell her how special she was to me... And to all of the other children who loved her over the years. The sunshine and warmth she gave so freely to the kids at her school was generous and full of joy. She will be missed.
-Kim Eberhardt