Linda Lu Rippetoe

Linda Lu Burton Rippetoe closed the final chapter on an incredible 102 year journey on January 25, 2026 leaving behind a legacy of love, faith and cherished memories.

Linda was born February 27, 1923 in Comanche County to W. II. (Bill) and Willie Pearl Henson Burton and lived all her life in Comanche County. Linda worked side by side with her dad on the family ranch which was purchased in 1885 by her great-great grandfather Joseph Hicks.

Linda married the love of her life Gayle Rippetoe on June 30, 1946. Gayle and Linda joined together their love of ranching and continued working on the ranch and living on the ranch part-time. Gayle passed away on the ranch in 1983 while they were working.

A cowgirl through and through Linda continued working on the ranch by herself for many years. Later, Linda decided a little help might be the ideal thing. She hired John Wilson. Linda and John spent many hours working together on her ranch and a great friendship was established throughout the years.

Linda started riding horses at an early age and continued riding until 2004. She loved a good rodeo and was the first Comanche Rodeo Queen in 1941.

Linda loved her community and was a long time supporter of many organizations and especially the youth organizations of Comanche. Linda was a great supporter of the Comanche Library, Comanche County Museum and Comanche Roping Club.

Linda was not only a rancher, but had a long career in the Comanche County Courthouse and also worked in the hospital administration office of Dr. Mims. Later, Linda was employed at Higginbotham's in Comanche.

In 1981, while at Higginbotham's, Linda was instrumental in organizing and writing a cookbook which featured not only tried and true recipes, but also featured historical photographs and facts of Higginbothams's deep rooted heritage throughout the years. The cookbook celebrated Higginbotham's 100th year anniversary.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Pearlie Burton, her husband. Gayle, and her brothers, J. R. and Sid Burton.

Though her journey on earth has ended, her legacy of resilience and love remains. A celebration of a life so beautifully lived will be Tuesday, February 3. 2026 at 4:00 p.m. at the Comanche Funeral Home. Following the service, Linda will be laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, a remembrance of Linda's life and love can be made to the Comanche County Museum at P. O. Box 22, Comanche, Texas 76442.