Mary Lynne Kinsey

April 6, 1949 – June 13, 2026

Mary Lynne Kinsey, beloved mother, grandmother, educator, and adventurer, passed away surrounded by family on June 13, 2026, in Lincoln, Nebraska, at the age of 77. Born on April 6, 1949, in Chadron, Nebraska, to Milton and Evalyn Miller of Scottsbluff, Mary lived a life marked by her love of family, a passionate commitment to education, and a strength few could match.

Mary dedicated forty years of her life to teaching 5th and 6th grade, shaping the minds and hearts of countless children who were fortunate enough to call her their teacher (lovingly known as the “Kinsey kids”). She approached her work as a calling, and her students and fellow educators felt it. Her classroom was a place where children were seen, encouraged, and challenged to be their best.

Beyond teaching, Mary was known for her warmth, her impeccable sense of style, and her philanthropic nature (including PEO and Friends Forever). Her holiday gatherings–especially her 4th of July and Christmas celebrations–were events her family and friends looked forward to all year long. She had a gift for making every guest feel special and every occasion feel memorable.

Mary was also a woman of the world in the truest sense. She traveled with curiosity and joy, exploring Japan, New Zealand, Australia, Italy, England, Spain, and beyond, collecting experiences and stories that enriched her life and those she shared them with.

For twenty years, she shared her life with her partner, Larry Loomis, until his passing in June 2022. Their bond was a testament to the joy that comes from finding ‘your person’ to share life's adventures with.

Even through her strenuous battle with cancer, Mary always had a positive outlook and a strength that transcended the disease. It was an amazing day when she was able to ring the bell being ‘cancer free’ and friends far and wide celebrated with her.

Above all, Mary was proudest of her girls and her grandchildren. She is survived by her daughter Nicole Riojas (Kinsey), son-in-law Andrew Riojas, and grandchildren Aiden and Alia Riojas; and her daughter Stephanie Kinsey, daughter-in-law Annette Kinsey, and grandchildren Ella, Indigo, Beau, and Emersyn. She was preceded in death by her parents, Milton and Evalyn Miller, and her partner, Larry Loomis.

Mary Lynne Kinsey leaves behind a world that is more beautiful because she was in it. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Funeral service will be held at 10:00 am on June 17, 2026 with a visitation beginning at 9:00 am at Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home, 6800 South 14th St., Lincoln, NE 68512.