Designer Linda Segal
After a two-year battle with breast cancer, designer Linda Segal passed away in Houston on Nov. 6. She was 56.
Segal was a contemporary and better sportswear designer whose line, Linda Segal Designs, was carried at Dillard’s as well as at high-end specialty stores, said Bernie Gardner, chief executive of the label, based in Burbank, Calif.
“It is with profound sorrow and regret I announce the passing of Linda Segal, my friend, my business partner and my hero,” Gardner said. “She fought the battle of breast cancer with dignity and courage, and I will never forget her humor and determination right up to the end.”
Gardner and Segal were partners for more than 10 years. They met when Gardner had Impala Industries International in Los Angeles and Segal, whose label at the time was Linda Segal for Ashley , was a customer. “She had a certain touch that was unique and creative,” Gardner said. “I was taken with her and her talent.”
The two joined forces and launched the new label Linda Segal Designs. Segal designed in Houston, and Gardner manufactured the line in Los Angeles. Four years ago, Segal’s daughter, Ashley Segal, joined the company as national sales manager.
Segal graduated with a bachelor of fine arts degree from the University of Texas. As a young girl, she had a love for art and fashion. She always believed if you follow your dreams, the rest will follow.
Segal is survived by her husband, Steve, whom she meant when she was 13. They recently celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary. She is also survived by her son, Marshall, and daughter, Ashley, who reside in Houston.
Funeral services were held Nov. 9 at the Beth Yeshurun Post Oak cemetery in Houston. Gardner said the company will continue operating under the Linda Segal label. “We are going to keep the company going and her name alive,” he said. —Deborah Belgum
