Resident Spotlight
If you’ve spent any time at The Harbor at Hickory Hill, you’ve likely seen the bright smile and warm presence of Linda Hadden. Born and raised in White Lake, North Carolina, Linda grew up in a bustling household with two sisters and a brother. Her curiosity and love for words led her to a career as an English teacher in the small country town of Snowhill, where she guided ninth-graders for ten years. She always dreamed of teaching older students, but when that path didn’t open, Linda listened to her heart and set out on a new adventure.
Returning to East Carolina University, Linda balanced night classes with her teaching job, determined to further her education. When she met with the folks at the university, one of them suggested, “You would make a great librarian.” Linda remembers thinking, “Well, I love reading, I bet I would love it! Let’s do it!” With that spark of inspiration, she earned her master’s degree and launched a new chapter as a librarian.
Linda found her place at Duplin County Public Library, where she spent over twenty years surrounded by books, stories, and a lively community. She and two coworkers that became close friends, the self-dubbed “Three Musketeers,” poured their energy into planning children’s programs—cutting paper, making crafts, and sharing “The Jack Tales” with young readers. Linda and her colleagues noticed that voter turnout in their county was declining, so they took action. The library agreed to set up voting booths right there among the books, and thanks to their efforts, more people in the community cast their vote.
For Linda, one of the greatest joys of library work was the simple pleasure of reading. She eagerly pored over book reviews before ordering, wanting every child to find something that would spark their imagination. Her love of learning extended to her own life; she still begins her mornings with devotion, holding memories of her home church in North Carolina close to her heart.
Linda’s journey included two marriages, but her greatest pride is her daughter, Elayna. Though she jokes about not having grandchildren, Linda considers Elayna’s horses her grandkids. She fondly recalls her favorite costume Elayna ever wore: a cowgirl, because “her passion has always been horses.” That love for animals is a thread that continues to connect them.
At The Harbor, Linda is known for her boundless enthusiasm and gentle spirit. She’s the first to join a bingo game, always ready for puzzles and coloring, and keeps her mind sharp with every activity—she truly shines as the community’s most active participant. Linda loves music, especially Elvis, and will occasionally play a tune on the piano. While she is quick to praise the kindness of The Harbor’s team, it’s her own warmth and friendliness that make her a joy to be around.
Born in the fall, Linda has always found beauty in the changing seasons. She treasures memories of visiting the Appalachian Mountains, watching the leaves turn from green to a tapestry of color. Spend a moment with Linda Hadden and you’ll discover a life shaped by curiosity, compassion, and an endless love for the next great story—whether found in a book, a friendship, or the world just outside her window.
