Ilene Linda Straka, known to many as Linda, passed away on May 6, 2026, in Cedar Grove, New Jersey, at the age of 86.

Born on September 15, 1939, in Trenton, New Jersey, Linda lived a life marked by intelligence, creativity, generosity, and a strong spirit that touched everyone who knew her. She was a woman of great determination and individuality. Linda carried herself with such style and grace that she affectionately earned her the title of “The Queen” from those who knew her. The name fit her well, as she was admired for her strength, her confidence, and the unmistakable way she made her mark on the world around her.

Linda was the devoted wife of Murray Barry Straka. Together, they shared a life built on love, commitment, and enduring companionship. She was a proud and loving mother to her daughters, Tracy Straka and Debbi Straka-Schmucker, and she cherished her role within her family above all else. She also leaves behind two grandsons, their wives and two great-granddaughters, each of whom brought joy and meaning to her life. Her family was the center of her heart, and she treasured the bonds she shared with them throughout her life.

Linda attended some college and carried with her a lifelong appreciation for learning, self-expression, and the arts. She was an artist and writer, and her creative talents were a defining part of who she was. Through her work, she expressed her unique perspective and her appreciation for beauty, detail, and imagination. She was self-employed and worked at Murlin Enterprises in Cedar Grove, New Jersey, where she contributed her time and abilities with dedication and professionalism. In every role she held, she brought intelligence, creativity, and a strong work ethic that earned the respect of those around her.

Beyond her work, Linda found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved to shop, and she had a keen eye for style and the special things that made life feel bright and personal. She enjoyed art in all its forms and found satisfaction in puzzles, which reflected her thoughtful and curious nature. She was a woman who appreciated both elegance and challenge, and she approached life with a lively spirit and a determined mind. Her interests were a reflection of her personality, and they offered glimpses into the many ways she brought color and energy into everyday life.

Linda was known for being strong-willed, and that strength was one of her most defining qualities. She was not easily swayed, and she stood firmly in her beliefs and in the love, she had for her family. Those who knew her understood that her strong will was matched by a generous heart and a deep sense of care for others. She was intelligent in conversation, creative in thought, and generous in spirit, and these qualities made her memorable to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

She will be remembered for her warmth, her resilience, and the unmistakable personality that made her so special. Linda leaves behind a legacy of love, creativity, and strength that will continue to live on in her family and in the many lives she touched. Our beloved Queen will be cherished always by those who knew and loved her.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are by Bizub-Quinlan Funeral Home, 1313 Van Houten Ave., Clifton, NJ. In lieu of flowers, please perform an act of kindness to honor her memory. Please consider sharing these stories with her family. Please visit www.bizubquinlan.com to leave condolences to the family on the Tribute Wall section of the online obituary.