Tributes

First Lady Linda Carol Celestine was born on September 25,1953, in Galveston, TX, to Willie Ola and Arthur Lee Bowie. Linda accepted Christ al the tender age of nine years old. Linda was baptized at Sunlight Baptist Church in Galveston, TX, where she sang God's praises as a choir member. Linda educational journey started in Galveston ISD at George Washington Carver Elementary School where she was the All-Star pitcher on the softball team. She attended Central Middle School where she served as the captain of the Pep Squad. Linda graduated with the class of 1972 from Ball High School where she loved supporting the school band as a ‘Majorette. In 1976, she met the love of her life Pastor Frank Celestine, Sr. in her hometown. They had a world wind courtship which led to Holy matrimony six months later April 23, 1977. Linda began her role as First Lady at the Greater New Hope Missionary Baptist Church of Dickinson, TX, where she and Pastor Celestine served God's people diligently. Through God's divine direction, in 1984 they were led to the great East Macedonia American Baptist Church of Houston, TX where she served as First Lady for 39 glorious years until God called her home. She made an indelible mark as First Lady and a mentor to countless women. Lady Celestine supported her husband and Pastor throughout his life's ministry with poise and dignity unmatched. Linda was a jovial member of the East Macedonia choir. She was an active participant in the Minister's Wives Auxiliary of EMBC. First Lady Celestine also held office as President of the Minister's Wives Auxiliary in the American Baptist Convention of Texas under the leadership of President Frank Celestine, Sr. On Wednesday, October 11, 2023, God called His faithful servant, First Lady Linda Celestine from labor to her eternal reward. Proceeding in death were her loving and devoted husband, the Reverend Dr. Frank Celestine, Sr.; her father and mother, Arthur Lee and Willie Ola Bowie, her grandmother, Cora Baker; four brothers; and grandchildren, Brian and Kia Simone. Linda leaves a legacy of love through her five children, Ada, Larry (Sandra), La Tonya (Pastor Stevens), Frank, Jr. (Jasmine) and Ashley (Colton); thirteen grandchildren, Rodney, Jordan, Malcom, Reggie, Kaylon, Michael, Nicholas, Celeste, Avery, Alani, Ashton, Dottie, arid Tonya; six great-grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, friends, and her East Macedonia Baptist Church Family who she loved dearly. First Lady Linda Celestine was an elegant Jewel who will be greatly missed.

Tributes

First Lady Linda Carol Celestine

September 25, 1953 - October 11, 2023