She was preceded in death by her parents, Velma and Wayne Collins. She is survived by her loving husband John “Jack” Kinney and their 7 children: Kathleen Lorenz, Kevin (Patricia), Timothy (Deborah), Nancy Twichell (Mark), Jane Huber (Patrick), Thomas (Kristin) and John. Also 9 grandchildren: Erik and Kerry Lorenz; Caitlin and Maureen Kinney; Allison and Jack Kinney; Kurt (Kate), Jay and Shannon Twichell. Also two great grandchildren.
A graduate of Michigan State University, Jill majored in Music Therapy and was an accomplished pianist. She met Jack while in college and they married in 1951. The couple raised their family in East Lansing, Michigan. Jill was a devoted school and church volunteer who also made her mark with the Lansing Junior League, playing the piano for musicals and other productions. She was very active in the community and always supported the Arts and Theater. Jill enjoyed golf and attending social events at a local country club. When her youngest entered junior high school she started working in the travel business and became manager of Group Travel. She saw the world and brought home countless treasures. Being the wife of the Michigan State University Alumni Association Director meant attending various sporting events and programs on campus and also hosting alumni trips.
In 1982, she moved with her husband to Santa Barbara, California, where she continued her role as the wife of a university administrator. She also continued working in the travel industry, she was a true professional and enjoyed organizing and taking groups on trips visiting so many different places around the world. Jill and husband Jack retired to Sun Lakes, Arizona in 1989. She was gratified to be in close proximity to her mother and was able to enjoy the active lifestyle in the area, becoming an avid golfer. Jill was an original member of the Ironwood Ladies Golf Association and past president of Oakwood Ladies Golf League. A son and two daughters would relocate to the Phoenix area that included two grandchildren. For two decades, Jack and Jill were able to spend several weeks in Michigan each summer to see additional family members.
Jill was a vibrant woman in every way, beautiful both inside and out. She was smart, wise, well informed and a voracious reader. Besides being a gifted pianist, Jill was a master at crossword puzzles that she completed on a daily basis. She had a wonderful style, always carrying herself with class and grace and looking polished from head to toe. Her many friends and family will always remember her outgoing personality, warm nature and lovely smile. Her boundless energy and motivation to get the most out of life served her well. Indeed, she loved and lived fully.
Valley of the Sun Mortuary will be providing Memorial Services at Sun Lakes Chapel on June 9 @ 11:00 AM.
For those desiring, contributions may be made in her memory to the Alzheimer's Association.
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