DURAND LINDER's Obituary
BYRON –
Durand Lee Linder, 48, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, March 12, 2026. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Watson-Hunt Funeral Home in Perry. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests memorial contributions be made to Children’s Hospital of Atlanta (CHOA), 1575 NE Expressway, Atlanta, GA 30329.
Born on August 26, 1977, Durand lived a life defined by dedication to his family, service to his country, and a generous spirit toward everyone he met. A lifetime resident of Middle Georgia, Durand graduated from Perry High School in 1996. He continued his education at Middle Georgia Technical College, where he earned an associate degree in Aircraft Sheet Metal. He later obtained both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, completing his master’s degree in 2012, a milestone that reflected his strong work ethic and commitment to lifelong learning.
Durand served nearly 25 years as a federal civilian at Robins Air Force Base, where he began his career as a Flight Line Mechanic and most recently served as a Logistics Management Supervisor. Throughout his 24 years of service, he was known for his professionalism, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Outside of his career, Durand embraced life with enthusiasm and adventure. He was a NAUI-certified SCUBA diver who enjoyed exploring beneath the waves. He also found great joy in raising goats and farming alongside his family, creating lasting memories through their shared work and time together. A natural storyteller, Durand had a gift for sharing funny stories that brought laughter to those around him. Above all else, he was a devoted and fun-loving family man whose greatest joy was spending time with those he loved. Known for his kindness, humor, and willingness to help anyone in need, Durand’s generous heart touched many lives. He previously attended Lizella Baptist Church with his family.
Durand was preceded in death by his father, George Carter Linder; his mother, Brenda Kay Fountain Linder; his maternal grandfather, Doug Wilson; his paternal grandparents, Thomas Malcom Linder and Mary Ella Linder; and his uncle, Lewis Linder.
Left to cherish his memory are his loving and devoted wife of over 22 years, Michelle McDaniel Linder of Byron; his children, Carly Linder and Christian Linder, both of Byron; his maternal grandmother, Essie Lee Darsey Wilson of Byron, whom he lovingly called “Granny”; his brother, Christopher Linder (Nica) of Hawkinsville; his sister, Mary Katherine Linder of Rome, Georgia; his nieces and nephew, Amber, Adam, Autumn, and Ruby; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and friends.
Durand will be remembered for his warmth, loyalty, and the deep love he showed to those around him. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and in his family whom he cherished so dearly.
Condolences for the family may be left in the online guestbook at https://www.watsonhunt.com. Watson-Hunt Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.
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