Linda Kay Baker-Thornton, 63, a resident of Wagoner, OK departed this life on Wednesday, May 29, 2013 in Wagoner. She was born March 16, 1950 in Virginia. Linda was a warm and nurturing spirit. Before retirement she worked as a bus driver for Broken Arrow, Coweta and Wagoner Public Schools. Her love for children and creative talents combined in her work and her devotion to God and his work. Linda attended the New Hope Assembly of God Church. She encouraged others in their faith and volunteered much of her time to working with the children in bible school, where she was known for her puppet shows, using puppets she made herself. Her love of children was most strongly shown by the fact that her grandchildren were the world to her. The family will always remember what an amazing artist Linda was. Survivors include her longtime companion, her husband, William Thornton of the home; two children, Sarah Victory of Wagoner and Jennifer Baker and spouse, Shawna, of Tulsa; five grandchildren, Breonna Cooper, Brittnie Cooper, Sebastian Melton, Jake Blanchette and Stone Blanchette. She was preceded in death by her parents, Evelyn and Don Winkle; a brother, Buddy Schivel and a sister, Christine Young. The funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 1, 2013 at New Hope Assembly of God Church in Muskogee. Pastors John Overton and Monte Humphrey will officiate. Cremation will follow the service.