Linda Chen passed away peacefully o­n Dec 29 last year, four days after she suffered a stroke at her home in Hua Guan Avenue o­n Christmas Day. She was cremated at Mount Vernon o­n New Year's Day.

A large crowd attended the simple ceremony, at which her husband, Professor Dr Tan Seng Huat and their three children spoke with emotion about Linda, the idealist, mother and friend.

Linda had a distinctive and unmistakable laugh which was at o­nce infectious and disarming. She was gracious and self assured, and always wore a smile for any o­ne she met.

It was almost impossible to be angry with Linda, even if you disagreed strongly with what she said. She had a rare combination of courage and amiability, an unobtrusive intelligence coupled with an honest humility.

In Seng Huat's words, she was simple and frugal in her personal lifestyle and needs, but was always generous and helpful to friends.