Linda Jacobs Altman

January 22, 1943 – April 24, 2026

Linda Jacobs Altman was born on January 22, 1943, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, the daughter of Lloyd Daniel and Elizabeth Parker Blackburn.

She later made her way to California, where she continued her education at Ventura College, Los Angeles Valley College, and the University of California, Santa Barbara.

On April 16, 1981, she married Richard Altman, a musician who later became the Rabbi of Lake County Congregation Beit Chavurah where they both served the Jewish community group in Lake County.

Linda was a storyteller. As a prolific author, she wrote more than 96 books, touching on subjects ranging from children’s stories to history and the human experience.

In addition, Linda’s love for animals was unparalleled. She opened her heart and her home to any cat, dog, or bird in need, offering comfort and care without hesitation. It was simply who she was—someone who saw a need and answered it with kindness.

Linda was pre-deceased by her husband and Rabbi, Richard Stephen Altman. She leaves behind her son, Brian Vincent Austin, his wife Kim, her grandson Zachary C. Austin and his wife Myra, great granddaughter Penny and her granddaughter Lauren Austin.

A Graveside Inurnment Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, May 15th, 2026 at Hartley Cemetery, 2552 Hill Rd E · Lakeport, CA, where we will gather in reflection and remembrance of Linda’s life and the love she shared. She will be missed and forever remembered by all who knew her.

Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes mortuary (707)263-0357 or 994-5611 or visit: chapelofthelakes.com