Oma Marie Jackson Kiniry

Oma Marie Kiniry, aged 94, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2025, in Everett, Washington. Born on April 6, 1931, in Verdon, Nebraska, Oma relocated to the Everett area at the age of 16, where she established a fulfilling life and remained a resident for over seven decades.

A proud graduate of Everett High School's Class of 1948, Oma was an active member of the Everett Roller Skating team, where she met her first husband, Lester (Gene) Jackson. Her dedication to her family, as she devoted herself to raising her four daughters—Nancy (Fred) Skinner, Jeannie (Douglas) Heinzen, Deborah (John) Benedetto, and Sheri (Leonard) St.Clair—who were the pride and joy of her life. After her daughters embarked on their own paths, Oma worked for 15 years at King Size Photo, demonstrating her strong work ethic and her love of photo taking.

Following her retirement, Oma, alongside her second husband, Walter L. Kiniry, enjoyed escaping to Yuma, Arizona, for the winter months, where they made new friendships and enjoyed the vibrant desert lifestyle. A woman of faith, Oma was a longstanding member of the First Baptist Church of Everett, where she enjoyed her Sunday Bible study, served in the kitchen for special events, and cherished Thursday coffee gatherings with friends. Her involvement in the SAMS organization further enriched her life through shared activities and outings.

Oma's warm and welcoming home, where she resided for 60 years, was a testament to her meticulous care and love for her surroundings. Her gardens, a sanctuary of peace and tranquility, were her happy place, maintained even at 94. Known for her strength, kindness, and spirited personality, Oma was always at home, always answered her phone, always ready to lend an ear and always happy to see you. Her home was the center of many cherished holiday gatherings.

Oma is survived by her four daughters, nine grandchildren—Shannon Smythe, Lisa Langill, Rachelle Ruchty, Shane Stone, Lori Fabian, Chadwick Stone, Megan St.Clair, Amy St.Clair, and Bryan St.Clair—eight great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, Ella, her sister Connie Westling, and a wide circle of extended family and lifelong friends. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Walter L. Kiniry and Lester E. Jackson, her parents, Raymond Royal and Freda Frances Burns, her brother, Raymond Garold Burns, her sister, Beverly Ann Dale, her granddaughter, Megan St.Clair, and her sons-in-law, John R. Benedetto and Douglas M. Heinzen.

A graveside service to celebrate Oma’s remarkable life will be held on July 16th, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Floral Hills Cemetery, Evergreen Gardens, located at 409 Filbert Road, Lynnwood, WA 98036, followed by a reception to honor her legacy.

Oma’s enduring spirit and devotion to family will be forever cherished by those fortunate to have known her. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Hospice of the Northwest.