Who is Linda Partridge in the film, Magnolia?

Linda Partridge is Earl's new wife. She is quite a bit younger than him, and she is terribly distressed by his condition. For years, Linda cheated on Earl and treated him badly, but now that he is dying she realizes that she loves him. Linda is upset by this realization, and she seeks help from all corners. She finally tries to kill herself to avoid having to make a difficult choice about Earl's will.