Linda Gordon (née Caruso), 75, of Panther Valley, NJ, passed away peacefully on September 16, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on November 21, 1949, in Newark, NJ, Linda was the youngest of five children of Filomena and Anthony Caruso. She grew up in Belleville, where she developed a lifelong love of learning and compassion for others. She attended Jersey City State College, where she met the love of her life and best friend, William Gordon.

Bill and Linda married in June 1972 and began their life together in Florham Park before settling in Succasunna, where they raised their family. Linda had a diverse and dedicated career, working for Prudential, Teamsters local in Newark, and the Netcong Board of Education. She spent the final 28 years of her professional life working for Randolph Township Schools, where she was known for her kindness, dedication, and ability to brighten any room with her smile. In the last decade of her life, Linda’s greatest joy came from spending time with her beloved grandchildren. They were the center of her world, and every moment with them – whether sharing a laugh, a hug, or a quiet story – brought her immeasurable happiness. She cherished those simple, beautiful moments and held them close to her heart.

Linda enjoyed traveling across the United States and Europe and cherished time spent at the beach. For over 50 years, she and Bill made Christmas magical for families in need, adopting a “Christmas Family” each year. With the generous support of family and friends, Linda poured her heart into selecting perfect gifts for each member of the family.

Linda will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 53 years, William; children: Danielle (Sean) and Christopher; and grandtwins: Madalyn and Callan. She is also survived by her brother, Anthony Caruso Jr. (Judy); in-laws Judy Caruso, Mary Lou Caruso, Barbara Gordon, Kathy and Jack Beard, Andrew and Helen Vanderham; as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.  Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Anthony and Filomena (Barbarossa) Caruso, and her siblings and in-laws Audrey and James Puckett, Raymond Caruso, Robert Caruso, Phyllis Afflitto, Jack Gordon, and Robert Gordon. Linda will be remembered for her comforting hugs, deep love for her family and friends, gentle wisdom, and her ever-present willingness to lend a

helping hand. She often said, “It is what it is,” a phrase that reflected her deep belief that everything happens for a reason. Her spirit will continue to inspire kindness and compassion in all who were fortunate to know her.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 24 th, 2025 at Cochran Funeral Home, 905 High Street, Hackettstown, NJ from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, September 25^th, 2025 at Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church, 305 High Street, Hackettstown, NJ at 11 am. Interment will follow at Hackettstown Union Cemetery, Hackettstown, NJ.

In Lieu of flowers, please consider donating in her memory to the American Cancer Society. https://raiseyourway.donordrive.com/campaigns/Linda-Gordon

For those wishing to leave online condolences for the family please visit, www.cochranfuneral.com