Dr. Linda Wortham Cook
Dr. Linda Wortham Cook, PhD, 71, of Beaumont, died Saturday, March 21, 2026, following a challenging battle with cancer. She was born on April 12, 1954, in Houston to Barbara Anderson and Thomas George (TG) Fitzgerald. Jr and relocated to Southeast Texas in 1975 where she pursued a career in elementary education.
Linda was a dedicated and passionate educator who spent thirty-six years working with children as a teacher and counselor with the Beaumont Independent School District. She was a proud alumnus of Baylor University and Lamar University, where she received her bachelor’s in education. On May 10, 2008, she achieved a lifelong goal of obtaining her doctorate in education from Lamar University.
On May 22, 2008, while participating in a BISD cultural immersion program in Pachuca, Mexico, Linda was involved in a tragic bus accident that claimed the lives of three of her companion educators. She was ultimately able to survive however, she suffered a catastrophic spinal cord injury during the collision which rendered her a paraplegic for the remainder of her life. Despite her considerable injuries and lengthy rehabilitation, Linda was undeterred and eventually resumed her educational duties with BISD until her eventual retirement in 2015.
Linda’s biggest love in life was by far her grandchildren, whom she sought to spoil, love, and teach at every possible opportunity. She proudly and affectionately wore the title of “Mimi” all the way through her final days.
Survivors include her sons, RJ Wortham and his wife, Jerrica, of Missouri City and Baylor Wortham and his wife, Lindsay, of Beaumont; grandchildren, Taylor Wortham, Camryn Wortham, Gracie Wortham, Robert Wortham III, Jaxon Wortham, Jacelyn Wortham, Baylor Wortham II, and Elizabeth Wortham; great-granddaughter, Monroe; and siblings, Tommy Fitzgerald, Tim Fitzgerald, Barry Fitzgerald, and Beverly Fitzgerald Peterson.
Linda is preceded in death by her parents, husband, Dr. James “Jim” Cook; and sister, Barbara Jo Fitzgerald-Davis.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 680 Calder Avenue, Beaumont, Texas 77701.
A gathering of Dr.’s Cook’s family and friends will begin 1:00 p.m. in the Cloister room with her funeral service to follow at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 680 Calder Avenue, Beaumont. Her interment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Beaumont. Pallbearers will be Robert Wortham III, Baylor Wortham II, Jaxon Wortham, Kyle Peterson, Travis Fitzgerald, Tommy Fitzgerald, Tim Fitzgerald, and George Whiting.
Video
Gathering of Family and Friends
The Cloister Room at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church
- 680, Calder Ave, Beaumont, TX, 77701,
- April 1, 2026
- 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Funeral Service
St. Mark’s Episcopal Church
- 680, Calder Avenue, Beaumont, Texas, 77701,
- April 1, 2026
- 2:00 pm
Interment
Forest Lawn Memorial Park
- 4955, Pine St, Beaumont, TX, 77703,
- April 1, 2026
Baylor and family, we were saddened to hear of your mom’s passing. Linda was a true trooper and overcame many obstacles in her life. I know you will miss her deeply. Our prayers are with you.
Jesus said…”I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live.l.” John 11:25
Baylor, RJ – grandchildren Taylor, Camryn, Gracie, Robert and family, You are in my thoughts and prayers as you grieve for your Mom/Mimi. May God comfort you with His love. Linda Wortham Cook, a special friend, we went to Houston Calligraphy Guild workshops, retreats since 2001 – we have special memories shared having the first same name, as well as our love for “hearts”, Copperplate lettering, love for our children and grandchildren, and sharing our faith. A beautiful, special friend – Daughter of the King. Love and Prayers, Linda Matheson – I have you in my heart. Philippians 1:7
Dear Family-
Emily and I will be lifting you all in prayer with our deepest sympathies. What a tremendous legacy she left, not only through her family, but also through the countless children she touched.
With sympathy and prayers,
Randy and Emily Fluke
Thank you Randy, we miss you and much love to you and your family.
Please accept my sincere prayers and condolences. Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord.
In Christ’s love,
Fr. Kevin L. Badeaux
Such a sweet, courageous woman! RIP BEAUTIFUL ANGEL!
My deepest condolences. May our God, the God of all comfort, comfort your hearts.
Our deepest condolences to you and your amazing family Baylor.
Come Holy Spirit come.
So so sorry – what a fighter she was!! She made her mark as she was always a children’s advocate!!! But she was also a lot of fun!!! And soooo cute! I always thought she looked like Gina Davis! If there’s a heaven, she’s there!!!!
So sorry to hear of the loss of Linda. I will always remember her as the beautiful new member of Kappa Alpha Theta Fraternity at Baylor University.
May you rest peacefully, Linda. Prayers for your family.
So, so very sorry to hear this news. Linda was a bright light in the lives of all who knew her! She was such a treasured friend, Rest in peace!
We will miss our devoted Daughter of the King. Rest in peace and free of pain Linda.
I will miss my long- time friend. She’s home now and free.
May she Rest In Peace