Lynda Caywood

Lynda "Granny" Caywood (Peterson)'s Story

Lynda Peterson Caywood, lovingly known as "Granny," passed through to whatever comes next Jan. 9, 2025. Born in 1944, Lynda was a force of Nature from the moment she arrived Earthside, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Raised in Portland, Ore., and California, Lynda developed a lifelong love for the beach, a passion that reflected her free-spirited nature. She was a woman of immense warmth and generosity, welcoming family, friends and even strangers into her life with an open heart. Those who spoke with Lynda often felt truly seen and heard — a testament to her genuine compassion and deep empathy.

Lynda defied convention in many ways and was celebrated for her positivity, wisdom, and unwavering belief in the power of women. She cultivated meaningful relationships with countless women over the years and played a pivotal role in organizing "Closer to the Heart," a local women's retreat aimed at fostering connection and empowerment. To many, she was a living goddess who inspired others to recognize their own inner light.

As a young woman, Lynda was vibrant, curious and courageous. She embraced life's adventures with enthusiasm, navigating the challenges of being an officer's wife during the 1960s and 1970s. Her family's military life took them to various locations around the world, including overseas assignments where she immersed herself in unfamiliar cultures. Lynda's openness to new experiences and her ability to adopt values and practices from diverse communities spoke to her boundless curiosity and love for people.

As a mother, Lynda was unparalleled. She brought joy to her children's lives through creative endeavors like organizing neighborhood picnics and holiday-themed parties. She loved a good theme party! One memorable year, she baked gingerbread houses for all the neighborhood kids to decorate — a reflection of her love for bringing people together.

As "Granny," Lynda created a magical world for her grandchildren. Whether spending time at the lake or river or attending Art on the Green with them each year, she encouraged their creativity and sense of wonder. Her legendary snack bag was always within reach, and she delighted in capturing special moments on video, narrating from behind the lens with her signature warmth.

Lynda's passions extended beyond her family. She enjoyed drumming with friends and never missed an opportunity to support her children's and grandchildren's activities — whether sports events, performances or celebrations. Her tradition of singing "Happy Birthday" over the phone became a cherished ritual for those she loved.

Professionally, Lynda was a certified hypnotherapist who used her skills to help others navigate life's challenges. She also worked at Prairie View Elementary School, where she touched the lives of countless young students by helping them learn to read. Seeing these children grow over the years brought her immense joy.

A testament to her resilience and strength, Lynda achieved 45 years of sobriety through Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), forming deep and lasting friendships within the community that supported her journey.

Lynda was preceded in death by her husband, Bill Caywood; her sister, Marna Crill; and her son, Tim Picard. She is survived by an extensive family who will carry forward her legacy: Vicki (Peterson) Adame married to Ray Adame; Michael Chavez; Robert Chavez; Mandy Chavez; Pam Picard (married to Tim Picard); Sara (Picard) Price married to Charles Price; Addison Hartel; Kennedy Hartel; Tim Picard Jr.; Richard Picard; Kateri (Picard) Ray married to Gordon Ray III; Steven Burgess II; Sommersby (Picard-Keeton) Tessier married to Sean Tessier; Samantha (Ray) Rayvin married to Wade Rayvin; Dakota (Ray) Eslinger married to Jordan Eslinger; Therese (Picard) Harsh married to Douglas Harsh; Barbara Harsh; Dominic Harsh; Stella Jorgenson; Jamie Harsh; Kenai Harsh; Hope Harsh; and Daniel Harris.

A celebration of Lynda's life will be held at an open house service Feb. 22, 2025, from noon to 3 p.m. at English Funeral Home.

Lynda's light will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her. May her memory bring comfort and inspiration to those she touched so deeply.