Linda L. Royster

Linda LeMay Royster, 78, of Staunton, Virginia, passed away on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease and several other illnesses.

She was born in Richmond, Virginia in 1947, to the late John LeMay Royster and Marjory Fleming Royster and raised in the nearby Bon Air community.

She is survived by: her wife of thirty-eight years Barbara Kinsman; her brother William (Bill) Royster and his wife Priscilla Melchior, niece and nephew Amy Royster Bridger and Jeffrey Royster, and their children; her daughter Leatrice Royster Hallman and her sons Tony (Lucifur), John, Jr., and Adam; her son Joseph Royster and his son Sam; five great-grandchildren; her niece Sarah Francisco and her wife, Teri Beasley, as well as bonus niece Keri Beasley Jones; and sister-in-law Sally Whitehouse.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her sister, Virginia Royster Francisco.

A graduate of Mary Washington College and the University of Richmond School of Law, Linda’s professional career was defined by her advocacy for the rights of people with disabilities and by representing clients in need as a public defender. Linda was a fierce advocate and dedicated activist for civil rights for all people. Her passion for justice led Linda, Barbara, and their family to participate in countless peaceful marches and demonstrations. Linda, Barbara, and their three grandchildren even took part in the Soulforce relay march of families across Colorado. When Linda saw inequality, she spoke out and showed up. Regardless of the situation, she uncompromisingly said what she thought-while always keeping her sense of humor.

Linda was deeply loyal to her friends and family and stood by many through personal crises and challenging circumstances. She herself struggled with mental health challenges for much of her life. Linda was devoted to her grandchildren, and they treasured their time together, sharing many travels and outdoor adventures near and far.

Linda also loved music. She played guitar and dulcimer and sang in a lesbian and gay chorus in Washington, D.C. Linda and Barbara rescued many animals over the years, most recently their dogs, Kagan and Ellie.

After living in Takoma Park, Maryland for many years, Linda and Barbara moved in 2004 to the Mossy Creek area near Bridgewater, Virginia, where they lived for nearly two decades. There, they cared for the historic schoolhouse that was their home, enhanced the beautiful surrounding gardens, and hosted many Shenandoah Valley Gay and Lesbian Association potlucks and other gatherings. They enjoyed weekly bridge games with friends and playing cribbage together. In 2022, they moved to Staunton.

Linda will be greatly missed by her family and friends. She had a profound impact on the slow but relentless march toward civil rights and equality in Virginia and across the United States. After fighting for many years for the right to marry, Linda and Barbara were married in 2014 in Provincetown, Massachusetts, a favorite place where they gathered with many friends.

The way Linda bravely lived her life followed the call of civil rights leader and former Congressman John Lewis, who urged people to “get in good trouble, necessary trouble, and help redeem the soul of America,” and reminded us, “There comes a time when you have to say something. You have to make a little noise. You have to move your feet. This is the time.” For Linda, it was always the time.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, February 21 at Harrisonburg Unitarian Universalist Church (4101 Rawley Pike, Harrisonburg, VA), with a gathering at the church to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Virginia, https://action.aclu.org/give/support-aclu-of-virginia.