Linda Mary Brainard (Douty), a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026, with her family by her side after a courageous, decade-long battle with multiple myeloma. She was 74.

Linda was born and raised in Odessa, Delaware, the daughter of the late William and Ruth Douty. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Brian Douty.

Linda will be remembered by all who knew her as one of the most loving, caring, and courageous people. Her warmth, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family defined her life and touched everyone around her.

She is survived by her devoted husband of over 25 years, Michael Brainard; her children, Heather (David) Cosme (late Angel Cosme) and Kyle David (Elizabeth David); and her former husband, Robert David, father of her children. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Alexander Cosme, Zachary Cosme, Adrian David, and Ella David, and a cherished great-grandmother to Atlas Cosme. She is also survived by Michael’s children, Michael, Matthew, and Shannon, and his grandchildren, Mykelle and Abigail.

Linda always found great joy in dancing, spending time at the beach, and, most of all, being surrounded by her family. In 2024, she and Michael relocated to Southport, North Carolina, where she embraced the coastal lifestyle that she loved.

Linda’s unwavering courage, strength, and grace throughout her illness were an inspiration to all who knew her. Even in the face of adversity, she remained positive, deeply loving, and devoted to those she held close.

A celebration of life will be held in New Castle, Delaware (date and time to be announced).

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Linda’s memory to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation: