Ms. Linda Renee Fanning

Linda Renee Fanning was born on May 29, 1961, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Eugene and Nora D. Fanning. Although she entered the world two months prematurely, her strong will and hearty appetite quickly made their mark-she was released from the hospital just five days after birth. That same appetite for life stayed with her throughout her years. At the age of eight, Linda made a life-defining decision by accepting Christ as her Savior under the pastoral leadership of Reverend E.M. Kelly at Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church. She remained a devoted and faithful member of the congregation until her passing. Linda's academic journey began in Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS), where she attended Twenty-First Street School, Robert Fulton Middle School, and North Division High School. In 1976, she was among the pioneering students involved in the desegregation of MPS, an experience that shaped her perspective and resilience. She graduated from Custer High School in 1979. Driven by a passion for knowledge and excellence, Linda continued her education at the University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee, where she earned a bachelor's degree in business administration with a concentration in accounting in 1985. Two years later, in 1987, her hard work and dedication paid off when she became a Licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA)-a remarkable achievement and a testament to her determination and skill. Early in her life, Linda held a variety of jobs, each one shaping her strong work ethic and character. Among them, she was especially proud of her time working as a seamstress at Mrs. Daisey Hentz's House of Fashion, where she cultivated both creativity and discipline. After earning her degree, Linda began what would become a remarkable 34-year career at the Internal Revenue Service. Throughout her time at the IRS, she wore many hats with pride and purpose. She found great fulfillment in educating others through teaching courses and took pride in becoming the first African American female Appeals Officer in the state of Wisconsin-a trailblazing milestone. In the final 12 years of her career, Linda served as a manager in the Large Business and International (LB&I) Division, where she continued to lead with integrity, insight, and empathy. Her passion for helping others reach their full potential extended far beyond her official duties. She served as a union steward, a trained facilitator in conflict resolution, and actively worked in the areas of Diversity and Equal Opportunity. Her dedication to equity and inclusion did not go unnoticed. In 2009, she was honored with the LB&I Commissioner's National Diversity and EEO Award in Washington, D.C.-a reflection of her tireless commitment to creating spaces where all voices could be heard and valued. Linda was a passionate advocate for community empowerment and lifelong learning. Her commitment to service extended far beyond her professional responsibilities and into every facet of her life. She held leadership roles on several impactful boards and committees, including the Executive Board of the Milwaukee Chapter of the National Association of Black Accountants, Inc. (NABA), Association for Improvement of Minorities (AIM), the Federal Employees Black History Committee, the Education Foundation Board of the Wisconsin Institute of Certified Public Accountants (WICPA), and the Accounting Career Board of the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA). After her retirement in 2017, Linda embraced her next chapter with the same energy and purpose that had defined her career. She poured her time and talents into mentoring students, teaching financial literacy throughout Milwaukee's inner city, and serving on the Finance Academy Board of James Madison High School. She believed deeply in the power of education and access-committed to ensuring that young people, especially those from underserved communities, had the tools they needed to succeed. Linda's unwavering faith in Christ was the cornerstone of her life. From an early age, she was actively involved in ministry at Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church, where she remained a devoted member until her passing. At just four years old, she joined the Usher Board and served faithfully for 18 years, demonstrating even in childhood her dedication to serving others. Her commitment deepened as she grew, and for over 35 years Linda served as a Trustee of the church, taking on many roles, including Trustee Chairperson for four years. But it was through worship that Linda's spirit truly shined. With joy and zeal, she ministered through music as both a choir member and director for more than three decades. Her love for the Lord was evident in every note she sang and every life she touched through her ministry. Linda found joy in traveling, fine dining, and cooking, as well as playing cards, singing, and dancing. She was proud to be one of the first adult women to join the praise dance ministry at Metropolitan. Linda had a warm and encouraging spirit, always uplifting those around her, and held a special place in her heart for the elderly. On Tuesday, May 27, 2025, Linda went home to be with the Lord. She was preceded in death by her father, Eugene Fanning; her mother, Nora Dean Fanning; and two sisters, Laureva Fanning and Schrell Fanning. Linda leaves to cherish her memory two devoted brothers: Walter T. Fanning and Gregory (Patricia) Fanning of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She is lovingly remembered by her goddaughters, Tamira (Clenest) Rasco and Aryahna Levy; godsons, Dashandi Graham and Garry Levy Jr., all of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Her legacy continues through one niece, Trenace English, and nephews, Jeffrey Parker and Maurice Fanning, and her dearest life-time sisters: Dr. Dessie Levy and Kim Carter. She also leaves behind her cherished friend-posse: Jackie Dickinson, Janice Carnell, Ora Ewing, Lisa Lemons, Kara Lovell, Margaret Martin, and Angela Smith, along with many beloved cousins. Linda's life was further enriched by a host of adopted nieces and nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss her deeply.

Ms. Linda Renee Fanning

May 29, 1961 - May 27, 2025