The retired science teacher, who spent her career working in Cardiff and Essex, had gone to see her GP about a shortness of breath thinking it could be “heart problems” before being given her diagnosis.
“The hospital said she could have contracted it 20 or 30 years before,” said her younger sister Helen.
“The horrible thing about mesothelioma is that you haven’t a clue that you’ve got it until it’s too late.”
Helen said that as a biology teacher, Linda knew exactly what her diagnosis meant – but stayed “stoic” until the end.
She died aged 82, 18 months after finding out about her mesothelioma.
“Every one of us has been in buildings from time to time that have asbestos in them,” said Helen.
The Welsh Government said the safety of pupils and staff was of “paramount importance”.
“We continue to support local authorities through investment in school buildings, practical guidance and close collaboration with the Health and Safety Executive and Ystadau Cymru to ensure schools remain safe, modern and fit for purpose,” said a spokesperson.
Cardiff Council added that it had “robust and well-established” plans to manage asbestos in its buildings.
“Council buildings are surveyed, asbestos records are maintained and regularly reviewed, and checks are carried out to monitor the condition of any known asbestos-containing materials,” said a spokesperson.
“We remain committed to providing safe environments for pupils, staff and visitors and will continue to manage asbestos in accordance with all current legal requirements and recognised best practice.”