Linda Jayne

Linda Jayne, 73, of Riverhead, NY, passed away peacefully at 7:23 p.m. on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital, surrounded by love.

 Born in Huntington, New York, Linda spent her early years there before moving to Manorville at 16. She graduated from Eastport High School in 1969 and went on to build a beautiful life filled with warmth, kindness, and an unforgettable sense of style. 

For over two decades, Linda was the welcoming face of Riverhead Toyota, where she worked as a receptionist. Her co-workers were more than colleagues—they were family, and she cherished them deeply. Linda had a rare gift for making everyone feel special, lighting up every room she entered with her grace, wit, and impeccable taste. 

She is survived by her beloved son, Brian Jayne, and his wife, Shannon, as well as her greatest joy, her granddaughter, Averie. Linda also remained close with Timothy Jayne, the father of her son. Her chosen family included Miyoshi Foster, whom she loved as a daughter, and Miyoshi’s children, James Jr., Everett, and Miiko, whom she proudly embraced as her step-grandchildren.

 Linda is also survived by her brothers, Dennis (Janina) and Brian Carlson. She now joins in heaven her cherished parents, Lennart and Louise (Caruso) Carlson, and her dear brother, Lenny Carlson.

 Beautiful inside and out, Linda was known for her elegance, keen eye for design, and ability to turn any space into something breathtaking. She was stylish, loving, and delightfully witty. She adored watching movies, decorating, and most of all, playing dolls and hosting imaginative “cat shows” with her granddaughter, Averie. 

Linda’s journey with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center was one of resilience and hope. In September 2019, her brother Brian gave her the gift of more time through a stem cell transplant, allowing her 5 ½ more precious years. The friendships she formed with her caregivers at MSK were extraordinary—many visited her even in her final days, a testament to the lasting impact she had on those around her. A visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, April 5, at Tuthill-Mangano Funeral Home, 406 East Main St., Riverhead. A memorial service led by Deacon Stephen Donnelly will take place at 6 p.m., after which loved ones and friends will have the opportunity to share memories of Linda’s loving and kind nature. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, the hospital that provided Linda with compassionate care throughout her journey. Donations can be made online at this link or by check to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Office of Development, P.O. Box 27106, New York, NY 10087. Please include “In Memory of Linda Jayne” in the memo line. 

Linda Jayne was a light in so many lives, and though she will be deeply missed, her warmth, humor, and love will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.