Ronald Stephens Linch, best known to most as "Bartow" or "Botto," passed away on Monday, May 26, 2025, after a lengthy illness.
Born and bred in the “Briar Patch,” Putnam County, Bartow attended Putnam County High School, where in 1967 he wore No. 62 and his football team won the only football state championship. Bartow then graduated from PCHS in 1969. As a young man, Bartow was known for his adventurous spirit, leaving many people with memorable stories.
In 1988, while sitting in a deer stand surrounded by nature, Bartow accepted God into his life. Bartow took a great amount of pride in his work and professional accomplishments. He was employed by Horton Homes for 25 years. He was also an engineering subcontractor with Carter and Sloope, Inc., based in Macon, GA.
Bartow was a member of the Georgia Association of Code Enforcement Office in 2004. He was also an employee of Ingram Associates, Fortis Engineering, and Piedmont Water. He served as a Water Distribution License Operator in 2003 and was a Certified Building Inspector for the International Code Counsel. Bartow and Virginia Cartwright were married on July 5th, 1985, in Covington, GA.
Bartow completed the Lay Speakers’ Basic Program in 2007 and subsequently completed the Advanced Program in 2010. Bartow taught Sunday school for 7 years at various churches, and preached at numerous celebrations of life, weddings, baby dedications, and even baptized his uncle.
Bartow is preceded in death by his parents, Red and Sarah, and his sisters Gail and Brenda. Bartow is survived by his wife, Virginia Linch brother, Charles (Beth), daughter Scarlet (Kevin), sons Matthew and Joshua, and grandchildren Ronald Blake and Serenity Grace Grimes (Scarlet), Evan Thomas and Charlie Jansen Hall (Matthew), and twins Sherilyn Ouida and Virginia Louise (Joshua), along with numerous, wonderful cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who provided boundless support throughout this ultimate challenge.
Bartow’s Celebration of Life was held Saturday, May 31st, at the Liberty Chapel Church, with Pastor Jerry Swafford officiating.
Visitation was scheduled for 3:00, with the service following at 3:30. Friends are considered family and were invited to attend accordingly.
Everyone joined the family after the service in the Fellowship Hall for some food and stories.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Butterflies and Blooms, 617 N. Jefferson Avenue, Eatonton, GA, in the Briar Patch are encouraged.
Vining Ivy Hill Chapel was in charge of the arrangements.