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Susan Ann McKinney
03/19/1959 — 07/16/2012
From West, Richland, WA, USA | Born in Portland, OR
Susan Ann McKinney
Susan Ann McKinney, much loved wife, mother, daughter, sister, teacher and friend, passed away peacefully on Monday, July16, 2012 after a long battle with cancer. She was born March 19, 1959 in Portland, Oregon. Susan spent her high school and early college summers working as a YMCA camp counselor, where she first discovered her love of teaching and her gift for making everyone around her smile. Her camp name was "Sparkles" - an obvious nickname to all who knew her. Susan had a special ability to light up a room and greet everyone as if she had known them her whole life. She attended Eastern Oregon University in La Grande, Oregon, where she obtained degrees in Community Service and Early Childhood Literature. She enjoyed horseback riding, camping, golf, laughing, caring, being with friends and family, and "Red Wine and Chocolate."
Susan worked as a paraeducator at Chief Joseph Middle School in Richland. Prior to that, she worked at Enterprise Middle School in West Richland. Teaching was always a driving passion in Susan's life and she dearly loved all of "her kids." When Susan was raising her own children, she maintained active roles in all school functions, acting as PTO president and supporting youth hockey, dance, football, basketball, golf, and academics.
Susan is survived by her husband Steve, son Bryan, daughter Janet, mother Carolyn Carey, sister Nancy Barlow, and daughter-in-law Ashley. She is preceded in death by her father, Richard Carey.
Special thanks to Dr. Teresita Clar de Jesus, Dr. Vicky Jones, and all the oncology staff at North Star Lodge in Yakima. There was a special place in Susan's heart for all the chemo nurses and staff. She always said that while she went there for really not-fun treatment, she always left buoyed by their unwavering care and support.
There will be a celebration of her life at the Word of Faith Church, 1350 South Rainier Street, Kennewick WA, at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 25.
n lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude's Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place Memphis, TN 38105
So sorry to hear of your loss. The memories of being young moms together in Idaho Falls are ones that I’ll always treasure. Our family also greatly appreciated Susan’s support when we moved to the Tri-Cities.
Please know that you’re in our thoughts and prayers.
There are no words to express how deeply saddened we were to hear this news . . . Sue was a joy to know and truly something special . . . our hearts and prayers are with you, Steve, and your family now and in all the days ahead . . .
Susan really helped me four years ago when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I met her one day in the hall of Chief Jo where we both worked at the time and she had such a positive attitude about dealing with cancer. She told me about Dr. Vicki Jones, oncologist at the North Star Lodge in Yakima. I have had such a supportive experience going there and I am indebted to Susan for sharing the information. It must have been divine intervention that made our paths cross that day!
Susan was such a wonderful person and will be truly missed by all those who worked with her, but more importantly, for all those kids who will never have the opportunity to be taught, advocated for, and loved by her.
My deepest condolences to her family.
Steve, Janet, & Bryan,
Our hearts are breaking over your loss. We have such dear memories of your mom and wife during your Idaho Falls years. Smiling all the time, taking pride in everything she did, and just loving you guys so deeply. We will keep you in our prayers.
Julie, Kip, Amanda & Kimberly
I am so saddened. The world has lost one of its most beautiful spirits. Susan was one of the gentlest, warmest, kindest people I’ve ever known. Every day of the five years was a blessing working with her and the ESL kids. We were a family, and Susan was an amazing teacher and friend. I will always remember her with great love and admiration and much appreciation.
Sparkles! I had no idea that was Susan’s nickname growing up, but it fit her perfectly. Susan was my very dear friend and coworker. I miss her deeply, as I know many others do as well. She truly made the world a better place, and brightened my life. I am thankful for the time we worked together and especially for the time we shared as friends. I consider Susan a blessing, thank you Steve, Janet & Brian for sharing her. My heart hurts for your loss.
A true Sparkle for sure! The world has lost a most beautiful, and courageous woman. Although She lost her battle with cancer, she forever won the hearts of all of us who knew and loved her, and we will never forget her! She was a true inspiration, and a hero and fought this fight with all her might, and was so, so brave. I loved her positive and bubbly spirit and personality!
Steve, Bryan, Janet, Carolyn, Nancy and the rest of her family~ you are all in my thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time, and I am deeply sorry for your loss. ~Much love, Teri
My heartfelt condolences go out to Susan’s family. When ever she spoke of you her eyes were happy and she was excited every time she talked about her family and what they were doing. She was very proud of you all. I’ve never known anyone who had so much energy and excitement about everything she was doing. I know she really appreciated her mom when she came to help take care of her this spring and summer and she truly appreciated her loving husband as he helped her through this trial. I pray for all of you because you will miss her most and know God has already blessed you because you are all part of her. I will miss her along with so many others but I know we will all be in her presence again one day. Rest for now until then Susan.
Our deepest condolences to the McKinney family on the loss of your beloved wife and mother. Our hearts and prayers are with you.
Lucinda Borneman and Joe Rivera
I worked with Susan at HMS several years ago. I remember Susan as such a kind and positive presence. She was very caring and supportive to me when my mother was diagnosed with cancer. Although it has been a few years since I’ve seen Susan, the love and kindness she shared with me has never left. May your family find comfort and strength in knowing what a positive impact that Susan made in this world.
Steve, My sister Cheryl and I shared a treatment room with you and Susan at Northstar Lodge a couple of months ago. We are so sorry to hear of Susan’s passing. She was such a brave, sweet and gracious lady. We feel blessed to have met both of you and you were so kind to let us spend those couple of hours with you sharing stories. Our thoughts, and prayers for peace, are with you and your family. Sue Beitlich & Cheryl Udell
What a joy it was to work at CJ with Susan. We shared many moments and laughter in her room at the end of the hall. So very sorry for your loss. Sparkles, I will miss you.
Guestbook for
Susan Ann McKinney