Lynda Stone Honoree Your Williamson Ladies of Distinction Ceremony

For over three decades, Lynda Stone has poured her heart into the Puffy Muffin—not just as a business, but as a ministry of encouragement, excellence, and love. A native of Washington, D.C., Lynda’s early life included a few formative years in Japan before she and her husband Jack settled in Williamson County after meeting at Lipscomb University in the 1960s. They’ve called this community home ever since.

Founded on a deep belief in servant leadership, Lynda’s vision for the Puffy Muffin was never just about food. It was—and remains—about people. “God gave me the people who’ve worked with us,” she says. “My job was to get behind whatever He was doing in their lives.” From mentoring employees to nurturing a culture of integrity and excellence, Lynda’s passion for teaching leadership has touched generations. Many staff have stayed 25 years or more, a testament to the values and care she models daily.

With her daughters by her side—Kristi, now CEO, and Ali, who founded the cake department—Lynda built not just a family business but a beloved community institution. A guest once told her that Puffy Muffin is “a place where life happens.” For Lynda, no higher compliment exists.

A powerful moment of divine encouragement came during a rare shopping day in Franklin when she heard a familiar voice—it was John Maxwell, whose “Maximum Impact” teachings had mentored her through the early years of business. He later prayed over every inch of their new location, an act Lynda still sees as part of Puffy Muffin’s continued success.

Her accolades include the Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics, the Williamson County Impact Hall of Fame, and the Ann Huff Volunteer Award, among many others. But to Lynda, awards aren’t what matter most. “Success is measured by the legacy you leave,” she says.

That legacy is clear: a life spent uplifting others, helping them become who they were created to be. “If those who worked with us or dined with us remember that they were deeply loved, deeply valued, and encouraged to reach beyond what they thought possible—then that is the reward.” Click here to see this article and other honorees in Your Williamson Magazine.