Marsha Ann Bainter Kinlaw

Born to Richard Earl and Justine Ramsay Bainter on November 26, 1946, in San Angelo, Texas, Marsha lived a life dedicated to God alongside her siblings, Bruce, Barbara, and Connie. A graduate of San Angelo Central High School’s Class of 1964, and later a student at San Angelo College, she navigated the world with optimism and grace.

Marsha is remembered for her deep love of family, especially her husband, Jeffrey ‘Jeff’ Kinlaw. Married for over 60 years, she met her “sweetheart,” as they lovingly referred to each other, at San Angelo’s First Baptist Church in February 1964 and married the next year on March 5, 1965.

Soon after, the pair embarked on a two-decade long journey as they traveled the world for Jeff's career in the United States Air Force (USAF). Marsha approached the military orders with unwavering commitment, earning the Certificate of Appreciation from the USAF. She was honored for exemplifying astounding unselfishness and devoted service; “Her unfailing support and understanding helped to make it possible for her husband’s lasting contribution to the Nation.”

Marsha and Jeff’s time abroad was highlighted by the births of their three sons: Richard Chandler and Michael David, both born in Germany, and Jonathan Paul, born in the Philippines.

In addition to her commitment to raising a family, Marsha earned her medical transcriptionist certification and retired after a 40+ year career as a medical transcriptionist.

Returning to her Texas roots, Marsha and Jeff made their final home in Austin. Marsha never wavered in positivity despite many life obstacles thrown at her. Nothing brought her joy like a kitchen full of family; she loved her family fiercely, rarely missing events of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Marsha is also remembered for her exceptional storytelling, bringing to life adventures from decades ago. Her departure is felt deeply, and the depths of her devotion to family cannot be replaced or replicated. In the words of her beloved sweetheart: “It is not a love lost; it is a love interrupted.”

Marsha is preceded in death by her father, Richard Bainter; mother, Justine Bainter; and eldest son, Richard Kinlaw. Surviving are her husband, Jeff Kinlaw; sons, Michael Kinlaw and Jonathan Kinlaw; brother, Bruce Bainter; and sisters, Connie Bainter Swint and Barbara Bainter Valentin. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Kayla Lee, Hayley Kinlaw, Nathan Kinlaw, Hannah Kinlaw, Ian Kinlaw, and Elise Kinlaw; and great-grandchildren, Nora, Reagan, and Braxton.

A memorial service for Marsha will be held Friday, May 16, 2025, at 1pm at Cook-Walden/Forest Oaks Funeral Home and Memorial Park, 6300 West William Cannon Drive, Austin, Texas 78749. An inurnment will follow at 2pm.