Linda Rippetoe

Linda Lu Burton Rippetoe passed away on January 25, 2026, at age 102. A lifelong Comanche County, Texas resident (born February 27, 1923), she was a rancher, the first Comanche Rodeo Queen in 1941, and a dedicated community supporter.

 

She was a lifelong supporter of the Comanche County Historical Museum. The museum hosted her milestone events, including her 100th birthday celebration in February 2023.

 

Linda personally created and curated the Newburg Annex, a dedicated section displaying her family artifacts and historical items from the 19th century to present, reflecting her ancestors' mid-1800s settlement in Comanche County and Newburg community heritage. She contributed over 2 hours of recorded oral histories about Newburg and the annex, with portions featured in the museum's interactive touchscreen experience.

 

Her obituary highlights her support for the museum (along with the Comanche Library and Roping Club).

 

The Newburg Annex remains a lasting testament to her commitment to preserving local and family history and will be open to the public Saturday, February 28th.