Linda Drake Kirchner

Linda Drake Kirchner, 68, of Andrews, Texas passed away Sunday, October 3, 2021, in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Linda was born on November 28, 1952, in De Leon, Texas to Robert Gaines and Beatrice Box. She worked as a photojournalist for nearly 40 years, including two stints with the Andrews County News. She was known for breaking news photos, whether it was waking up in the middle of the night to capture pictures of accidents and fires or following other stories from her police radio. Kirchner received several awards for her photos during a career that dated back to her high school days in Andrews. She loved what she did and lit up any room she walked in with a sweet smile, camera in hand and contagious laugh. Linda enjoyed spending time with her friends and family, playing Wahoo, or cuddling up with her husband, Ken and dog, Lily, to watch a movie. She was always staying busy with her grandchildren that she adored. She loved crafting, gardening, and traveling. She was proud of her children and grandchildren and always loved sharing their accomplishments.

Linda is preceded in death by her Parents, Brother Doug Gaines, Sister Betty Gaines, and her 1st husband Larry Drake.

Linda is survived by her husband Ken Kirchner, 2 Sons William Drake of Glen Rose, Texas, and Robert Drake of Montana; 2 Granddaughters Cheyenne Willis of Stanton, Texas, and Finley Drake of Montana; 4 Grandsons Oscar Drake, Jacob Drake, Jaxtyn Tripp Willis, and Thomas Cray Willis, and extended family into the hundreds.

Family and friends will gather to celebrate her life 2:00 PM Monday, October 11, 2021, at McNett Funeral Home Chapel in Andrews with Kerry Pack officiating. Interment will follow in the Andrews North Cemetery under the personal care of McNett Funeral Home.