Linda Carlson Gault

JOHNSTOWN - Linda Carlson Gault passed away unexpectedly on Monday, February 16, 2026, at St. Peter’s Hospital in Albany, NY. Her loss was sudden and a shock to her family, who loved her deeply.

She was born on June 15, 1947, in Portland, Oregon, to Harold Potts and Dolores Andre. Linda came of age in the Pacific Northwest and graduated from Scappoose High School in 1965 before attending Portland State University for two years. Though her original plan to become a social worker never came to fruition, her indomitable spirit forged the foundation for a remarkable life journey — one that took her from the Pacific Northwest to upstate New York, to West Palm Beach, Florida, back to Oregon, then to Washington, and finally to Johnstown, NY. After losing her beloved husband Bob in 2004, she settled there to be closer to the grandchildren she adored.

Throughout her career, Linda wore many hats —perhaps most memorably as a bar owner and bartender. Behind the bar, she was in her element: quick with a smile, quicker with a pour, and always ready with a listening ear. She had a rare ability to make everyone who walked through her door feel at home. She treated her employees with exceptional care, offering bonuses and paid vacation, and never hesitated to support those around her. The regulars who found their way to her establishment found more than a drink — they found someone who truly listened and cared deeply.

Linda was extraordinarily generous, giving freely to her family, her employees, and even strangers. She tipped lavishly and never hesitated to help those she loved start over or move forward. Her generosity changed the course of her daughters' lives in profound ways, offering support, stability, and opportunity when it was needed most. More than anything, she wanted to make people happy, and her favorite way to do that was through thoughtful gifts for those she loved.

She also loved to laugh. Known for her distinctive voice, sharp, dry wit and perfectly timed commentary (often delivered under her breath) her humor always left a lasting impression. Those who knew her best will always remember her quick commentary and the laughter that so often followed.

Linda shared an especially close bond with her daughters, Michele and Lacey. They spoke constantly — typically for hours upon hours each week — about everything from interior decorating to work frustrations, new makeup finds, grocery store grievances, family dynamics, and politics. Their closeness was rarely sentimental but always authentic, constant, and deeply felt. Linda paid attention to the small things — and the small things mattered.

She had a deep love for animals. Over the years, she pampered many four-legged pets, and, more recently, channeled her energy into feeding the squirrels and befriending the crows in her yard. When the temperatures dipped below freezing, she prepared peanut butter toast for the crows and ordered a heated feeding bowl for the squirrels– a small but perfect example of her big heart and unique spirit.

Linda was predeceased by her husband, Bob Gault. She is survived by her daughters, Michele Flynn (Tom) and Lacey Dotson (Michael); her grandsons Cameron (Kate) and Logan (Megan) Husain; and three great-granddaughters, Sawyer, Josie, and Riley. She was deeply loved and will be forever missed.

There will be no services.  To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com.