Lynda Kathryn Tupper Kinley

FAIRFIELD – Lynda Kathryn Tupper Kinley, 81, of Fairfield, Maine, passed away peacefully on Sept. 21, 2025, at the Maine Veterans Home in Augusta.

Born in Pictou, Nova Scotia, Lynda graduated from Pictou Academy in 1962, where she was awarded the Gold Medal for the highest academic grade, and achieved the second-highest average on the Provincial Exams. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree at Acadia University where she also met her partner, Stewart. After raising her three children, she returned to school and earned a second bachelor’s degree in computer science at Thomas College. Her love of knowledge included foreign languages. She mastered both German and Russian and spent time in both countries, experiences that enriched both her teaching and her life.

She built a career dedicated to education, serving as Senior Admissions Director at the University of Maine at Farmington and as an Admissions Counselor at Thomas College and the University of Maine. She also taught English abroad as a UMF exchange faculty member at the Komi Pedagogical Institute in Syktyvkar, Russia, where her love of languages found a natural place.

A 43-year member of the Waterville Branch of the American Association of University Women, a 20-year member of the Fairfield Budget Committee, and a committed member of the Fairfield Economic Development Council, Lynda was tireless in her service to her community. She was known as an advocate for the underdog, whether in her professional work, community involvement, or personal relationships, she stood firmly for fairness, dignity, and opportunity for all.

Beyond her accomplishments, Lynda was the heart of her family. She was a confident, guide, and unwavering source of strength. She had a sharp mind, a fierce spirit, and the ability to bring clarity and comfort when the world felt uncertain. Her family could always count on her, and her love showed most in her steadfast presence and loyalty.

Lynda was predeceased by her parents Fredrick Alfred Tupper and Eudora Johnston Tupper; and infant sister, Marion.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 60 years, F. Stewart Kinley; daughter, Karen Morin (Alfred), sons Andrew Kinley (Melissa) and Brian Kinley (Annette); grandchildren Kaitlyn Perry (Kyle), Aaron Hayward, Alexander Kinley, Christopher Kinley, Katherine Kinley; and great-grandchild, Reese Perry. She is also survived by her brothers Edwin Tupper, Raymond Tupper, and Douglas Tupper.

Lynda was, quite simply, the best at everything she set her mind to, and her legacy will continue to live on through her family, friends, and community.

A memorial service celebrating her life will be held on Saturday, Oct. 25, at 11 a.m. at Pleasant Street Methodist Church in Waterville, followed by a reception.

Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Brothers Funeral Home is assisting in the service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to: the Alzheimer’s Association