Carolyn Millner Kinney

Born September 16, 1942 in Lynchburg, VA , Carolyn Millner Kinney passed away peacefully, at the age of 80, in Virginia Beach, VA on Saturday, January 14, 2023.

She was preceded in death by her father and mother, Lawson and Audrey Millner, brother, Ronnie Millner and sister-in-law Loretta Millner.

Carolyn had a loyal and proud work ethic, determination, stubbornness at times and so full of life. She genuinely cared for everyone she met. Throughout her career she worked as a certified physical therapist and as a registered nurse at Norfolk General Hospital. She retired from First Colonial Family Practice where she met Dee Clark and Jean Monson, dedicated and loyal friends to the end. She looked out for her neighbors and always made sure her favorite mailman had snacks and water to help him get through his day. After she retired, Carolyn became an Avon sales consultant and a lifeguard/pool manager at HollyGreen Apartments where she taught many children how to swim and they all called her 'Mom'.

Carolyn liked to laugh, dance and play bingo. Her daily passion was word search puzzles, reading and watching General Hospital. Her love for music, Elvis Presley and her must have lipstick was undeniable. Thanksgiving and Christmas were very special times for her to entertain family and friends through food, holiday decorations and making special memories. You could hear her favorite euphemism, throughout the day, "Kiss My Grits" or "Jesus Crimony".

Bingo is where she met her husband, Ray Kinney, whom preceded her in death after 46 years of marriage, while he was calling the bingo games she was playing. She was a former First Lady of Virginia Beach Elks Lodge 2268 and a member of the Marine Corps League Auxiliary, both of which she was very passionate about.

Carolyn "Nana" Kinney is survived by her loving and devoted daughters, Diane Shorey and Teresa Ballance. Her very special son-in-law, David Ballance, with whom she shared a deep, unbreakable bond and whom she loved and cherished dearly. Sisters Elaine Roorda (Jim) and Ellie Blackburn (Bob). Grandchildren Bobby Allen (Samantha), Jonathan Ballance (Catreina) and Tina Ballance. Great-Grandchildren Dakota Spruill, Angelica Pope, Lucas Ailstock, Samara and the love of her life Remington Allen.

Carolyn will be deeply missed and cherished by many. There will be a graveside service conducted at 10AM, Saturday, January 21, 2023 at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens, officiated by Carolyn's brother-in-law, Bob Blackburn. Reception to follow at the home of David and Teresa Ballance.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.