Obituary of Linda Allen

We deeply mourn the loss of Linda Allen, a beautiful creative soul and a beloved local artist known for her breathtaking mosaics. Linda passed away surrounded by family and close friends on March 7, 2025. She was 72 and born April 17, 1952, in Tampa, FL. the oldest daughter of Sam and Doris Manipella and lived most of her life in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Linda’s work transformed ordinary pieces of glass tile into extraordinary masterpieces with meaningful impact. Her mosaics were more than just art—they were stories of resilience, beauty, and unity. With every carefully placed piece, she reminded us that individual imperfections contribute to something greater. Her work adorns public spaces, private businesses and personal residences, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire others for generations to come.

In 1994 Linda created her first mosaic at Mayo Demonstration School in collaboration with Mayo elementary students. This was the beginning of a 30-year journey creating mosaics all over Tulsa and bringing meaning to each special moment. From the Tulsa Zoo to DVIS (Domestic Violence Intervention Services), the City of Tulsa’s Centennial celebration to Tulsa Community College, her mosaics are a true gift to our community.

Linda was also very philanthropic. Philbrook and TGAS (Tulsa Girls Art School) were two organizations very near and dear to her heart. She regularly encouraged those who weren’t familiar with TGAS to “make it a point to get to know it. It’s a wonderful asset for young artists in our community.”

Throughout her career, Linda’s creations reflected her deep appreciation for our community. Whether capturing the vibrancy of nature, the beauty of people, or the energy of the city she loved, her mosaics serve as a testament to her belief that when we come together, we can create something truly remarkable.

Beyond her footprint in the art community, Linda was a devoted wife, mom and especially grandma (Nona) constantly being with and intentionally giving of herself to her family. Family was immensely important to her, but the many, many friendships she coveted also defined her as a person.

Linda is survived by her loving husband, Dr. John Dewitt; her son Grant and his wife Nicole, their three children, Hadley, Harper, Henry; and stepson Jack, Holly and their two children, Henry and Lila. She is also survived by her brother Sam Manipella and his wife Beth Anne and their three children, Peter, Julia and Anthony: sister Teresa Smith of OKC and her husband Allen and their two children, Claire and Clark, plus her extended family and several close friends of many years. She’s a Bishop Kelley graduate and attended Oklahoma State University and received her Masters in Art from the University of Tulsa. Her professional life began as an elementary art teacher, but she quickly rose through the ranks and migrated to Jenks where she became a beloved Art Teacher at the High School level, effecting many students lives along the way.

Our beloved Nona will be deeply missed, and we will forever cherish every special moment we shared together.

Ninde Funeral & Cremation | (918) 742-5556 | ninde.com