Malinda Lynch , a woman of unshakable faith, radiant joy, and profound love, entered eternal rest on May 6, 2025, at the age of 76. Born on April 9th, 1949, in Girard, Kansas, to the late Edward James Sawyer and Ollie May Watkins, Malinda spent her life giving generously—through her words, her laughter, and her steadfast encouragement.

A proud graduate of Girard High School, Malinda went on to attend Washburn University. She later made her home in Hampton, Virginia, where she became a beloved member of Macedonia Baptist Church. There, she faithfully served as a pillar in the ministry and held the position of Treasurer for the Pastor's Aid, where her reliability and dedication made a lasting impact. Her presence was a blessing to all who knew her—wise and full of light.

Malinda had a heart that reached far and wide. She never gave up on people—her love was enduring, intentional, and fierce. She rejoiced in reconnections, embracing others with the warmth of someone who had waited a lifetime to love them. She was the kind of woman who left a lasting impression—whether through a hug that felt like home, a word of wisdom offered at just the right time, or a laugh so rich and contagious it lifted the heaviest spirits. Malinda was a source of strength, grace, and unwavering love to her family, friends, church family, and neighbors.

On November 3rd, 1990, she married the love of her life, Maynard Lynch. Together, they built a life grounded in commitment, devotion, and a love that inspired those around them. Malinda was the heart of her home—always one step ahead, guiding with gentle strength and the occasional witty nudge to keep Maynard in line.

Her life was filled with small, beautiful traditions—care packages in the mail, singing birthday songs, watching football games and favorite shows and sharing cooked meals. Whether ordering her QVC finds or sharing thoughtful gestures like flowers and sweet treats, Malinda knew how to make people feel seen and cherished. Her love showed up in the everyday—always present, always sincere.

Even in her final days, she danced in her hospital bed, reminding us all that joy can live even in the hardest moments.

She is survived by her committed husband of 34 years, Maynard Lynch; her sons, Kevin Johnson (Shamika), Samuel Epps (Francine), Keith Epps (Valerie), and Stevie; her daughters, Wanda Dearing, Lateefah (Ronald), and Felicia; her brothers, Joe Sawyer, James Sawyer and Richard Watkins, her sister, Sandy Corbin, her brother-in-laws,  Kermit "Joe" Lynch (Gloria) and Alexander Lynch and her sister-in-law, Gauntice "Marie" Jones (Elbert Jones—deceased); a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, and cherished friends—including her close and loyal friends Linda Drenik and Babbette Griffin.

Though her absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, we take comfort in knowing she is now reunited in heaven with her beloved daughter, Marisa Johnson.

Malinda's life was a living testimony of Psalm 37:4, and now, the desires of her heart are fulfilled as she rests in the arms of her Savior. Her legacy will live on through every life she touched, every smile she inspired, and every memory she helped create.

Viewing will be held Thursday, May 15, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel, 1601-27th Street, Newport News, VA. A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, May 16, 2025, at Macedonia Baptist Church, 5500 Marshall Avenue, Newport News, VA. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be livestreamed on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Macedonia-Baptist-Church-1847443218655131.

Following the service, a repass will be held at True Vine Church of Jesus, 201 Pear Avenue, Newport News, VA. Interment will take place at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery at a later date.