Linda Kay Elizabeth Little

Linda Kay Elizabeth Little, 62, of Dover passed away on Friday, December 19, 2025, at Cleveland Clinic Mercy Medical Center after a brief illness.

She was born on April 6, 1963, to the late Mr. and Mrs. Frank and Gail (Zimmerman) Rossi. She was a 1981 graduate of Dover High School. She received her bachelor’s degree from Kent State University and later earned her master’s degree from Ohio University.

Linda was a dedicated foster care specialist who spent her career placing teens and children into foster homes, and often… loving, permanent homes. She worked closely with the Amish community, making a profound impact on the lives of many kids who needed guidance and stability. Outside of her work, Linda had a passion for writing short stories and attending writing conventions, where she could connect with others who shared her creative spirit. She also found joy in baking, especially Christmas cookies, caramel corn, and cut-out cookies, which she loved to share with family and friends. She enjoyed reading, collecting stuffed alligators, playing Candy Crush, watching Court TV, and eating Penso’s Pizza (haha). Sadly, after suffering a stroke in 2014, Linda faced many challenges, but her legacy of compassion and creativity continued to inspire those who knew her.

She is survived by her husband, Alan James Little, whom she married on April 5, 1997; her daughter, Katherine Little; brothers, Steve (Annette) Rossi of Florida, Mike (Cyndi) Rossi of Copley, her father in-law, John Little of Port Washington, her sister in-law, Diane (Mike) Cochran and Paula (Richard) Simmons; her cats, Phoebe and Fred, and her grand-cats, George and Minerva; along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Gail Rossi; her mother in-law, Sarah Little; grandparents, Rossi and Zimmerman, and Aunts and Uncles.

Calling hours will be held at Toland-Herzig Funeral Home & Crematory in Dover on Saturday, January 3, 2026, from 9:00-11:00 am. A funeral service will take place at 11:00 on Saturday with Father Jimmy Hatfield officiating. A private burial will be held following the service. A meal will be served at the Toland-Herzig Monarch Center. To sign an online guestbook for Linda, visit the obituary link on the funeral home’s website.

Linda’s family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the Tuscarawas County Humane Society, 1432 Tall Timber Rd NE, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663.