Linda DeAlba Filer, 84, passed away peacefully at home on November 6, 2024. Born in Portsmouth, VA she was a lifelong resident of Hampton Roads and had made Newport News her home since 1965.
A graduate of Cradock High School in 1958, she pursued political science and social studies at Mary Washington College, earning her degree in 1962. Her love of learning continued, leading her to complete a second bachelor’s degree in English in 1978. Her interest in history also led her to serve as a costumed hostess for Colonial Williamsburg from 1962 to 1969, giving tours of the Governor’s Palace, the Capitol, the Wren Building, and other houses and taverns.
For forty years, she dedicated her career to teaching in the Newport News Public Schools, retiring in 2002. She began at Warwick High School, teaching adult education for Fort Eustis soldiers and adults, and English for Project Stay students. Later, at Denbigh and Woodside High Schools, she taught U.S. and World History, U.S. Government, and World Geography. Known for her natural storytelling and deep connection with students, she was honored as Newport News Teacher of the Year in 1999.
In 1997, after completing the Citizens Police Academy, Linda embarked on a secondary volunteer career, supporting detectives at the Central Precinct of the Newport News Police Department. Her contributions were recognized with awards including Newport News Police Department Volunteer of the Year (2008, 2015), Peninsula Crime Line Civilian of the Year (2013), and the Chief James D. Fox Award of Excellence. Her dedication to community service remained a hallmark of her life.
A longstanding member of the St. Thomas Class at First United Methodist Church in Hilton, Newport News, she found joy in her faith and fellowship.
She was a devoted caregiver to her mother until her mother’s death in 2007 at the age of 101.
Linda was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Carl Filer, and her parents, Clinton and Plumie Ruth DeAlba. She is survived by her loving family: her daughter, Cindy Maisannes, and husband, Bill of Charlottesville; her son, Todd Filer, and wife, Debbie of Newport News; two grandchildren, Krysti Wilson and husband, Brandon of Yorktown, and Zach Filer of Williamsburg; as well as three cherished great-grandchildren.
Services will be held privately.
