Linda Payette

Linda Kay (Gulick-Rivette) Payette, of Nacogdoches, Texas, passed away on July 6, 2026. She was deeply loved as a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, and her presence will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Linda grew up in Sugar Land, Texas, where she met her high school sweetheart, Tommy Rivette. The two married in October 1964 and built a life filled with family, love, and memories that would carry through generations.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ronald and Katy Gulick, and by Tommy Rivette. She is survived by her husband of 35 years, Bruce Payette; her siblings, Andy Gulick, Debbie King, and Danny Gulick; and her children, Christy Petty, Dean Rivette, Teri Rivette-Burt, and Joe Rivette. She shared a special bond with each of them, and the memories they created together will be cherished for years to come.

Linda’s love and legacy also live on through her grandchildren, Tresa Rivette, Aaron Rivette, Zoey Hobson (who Linda raised), Josh Burt, Megan Burt-DeFreitas, and Jacob Rivette, as well as her five great-grandchildren.

Those who loved Linda will remember her not only for the life she lived, but for the love she gave so freely. Her family was at the heart of her world, and the memories she created with them will be treasured always. Though she will be deeply missed, her spirit will continue to live on in the stories shared, the lessons remembered, and the love that remains.