Wednesday, March 11, 2026 4:03 pm

Linda Eskew Whitesides, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026, at White Oak Manor in Shelby, North Carolina. Born on September 5, 1943, in Shelby, Linda lived a life infused with love, faith, and community.
As a lifelong member of Westwood Heights Baptist Church in Shelby, Linda found joy and purpose in serving others. Her musical talents shone brightly as she played the piano for the church, bringing melodies that warmed the hearts of many. Her devotion to her church family was unparalleled, and she treasured the time spent in fellowship and prayer.
Linda graduated from Shelby High School, where she laid the foundation for a love of learning and connection that she carried throughout her life. Her passions extended beyond music; she found solace in gardening, where her nurturing spirit manifested in the beautiful blooms she cultivated. Bowling was another cherished pastime, where she shared laughter and memories with friends and family alike.
Linda's heart was a boundless reservoir of love for her family. She leaves behind her devoted son, Chan Whitesides and his wife Myra of Shelby, NC, who cherished her guidance and warmth. Linda's legacy continues through her grandchildren: Jacob Whitesides and his fiancé Shwetha Ramathan of Fuquay Varina, NC, and Jordan Whitesides of Boone, NC. Each of them holds a piece of her spirit, and they are forever grateful for the memories and wisdom she imparted.
Linda is reunited in peace with those who passed before her: her beloved husband, Marshall Whiteside; her young son, David Whitesides; her father, Earl Eskew; her mother, Inez Ware Eskew; and her brother, Tom Eskew. Their memories serve as comforting reminder of the enduring bonds of love that transcend time and space.
A visitation will be held in her honor on March 14, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM, followed by a Celebration of Life at 4:00 PM at Westwood Heights Baptist Church conducted by Rev. David Costner, located at 650 Dellinger Rd, Shelby, NC, 28152. It is a time for family and friends to gather, to remember Linda's beautiful spirit, share stories, and find solace in one another.
Linda Eskew Whitesides will be remembered not only for the roles she played as a mother and grandmother but also for her unwavering faith, her spirited laughter, and her kind heart. She enriched the lives of all who knew her, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of many.
To sign the guest book, please go to www.clevelandfuneralservices.com.
A service of Cleveland Funeral Services & Crematory, Inc.