Tracie Lyn Kinney

Tracie Lyn (Young) Kinney, born on November 29, 1965, in Columbus, Ohio, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2025, in Evansville, Indiana. Her life, a tapestry of love, creativity, and selflessness, touched the hearts of all who knew her. Tracie's journey began as the cherished daughter of Melvin Walter and Eugenia Lee (Edge) Young, both of whom predeceased her, along with her beloved husband of 22 years, Lawrence Edward Kinney, her sister Janet Fay (Young) Kearby, and brothers Larry Keith Young and William Alvin Young. Her memory will be forever held in the hearts of her sisters, Peggy Sue (Young) VanHauen and Mary Dianne (Young) Wallace, who stood by her side through the ebb and flow of life's moments.

A graduate of Plano Senior High School in Plano, Illinois, Tracie's education laid the foundation for her varied and fulfilling career. Although she held various occupations, her favorite was working at Boomland in Charleston, Missouri, where she found joy in the simple pleasures of everyday interactions. Tracie's work ethic and enthusiasm for life were evident in everything she undertook, and her dedication to her job was admired by all who worked with her.

Tracie's interests were as diverse as they were passionate. She found great joy in the care and nurturing of young children within her family and extended family, often seen as the pillar of support and love for the little ones. Her creative spirit shone through in her diamond paintings and the knitting of blankets and pillows, each stitch a testament to her loving nature. Tracie's love for games was infectious; she enjoyed playing cards and board games, bringing laughter and competition to family gatherings. Her visits to the Riverboat Casino, cheering for the St. Louis Cardinals, and her profound love for animals-dogs, cats, horses, and especially wolves-reflected the diverse range of her interests.

Tracie's final wishes, to serve as a cautionary tale against smoking and to have her ashes released at her favorite fishing place, Big Oak Lake in East Prairie, Missouri, were a reflection of her desire to leave a lasting positive impact. Her selfless nature extended even beyond her time with us, as she hoped to inspire others to make healthier life choices.

Tracie's life will be celebrated on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at New Hope General Baptist Church in Fairfield, Illinois, from 3-6 pm. The family will provide food and invite all who knew and loved Tracie to join in remembering a life lived with boundless love, creativity, and a nurturing spirit.

The legacy of Tracie Lyn Kinney will be the warmth and care she lavished on her family, the beauty she created with her hands, and the laughter she shared with friends. Her life was a beacon of selflessness, and she will be profoundly missed by those who were fortunate enough to know her. Tracie's memory will continue to inspire and guide us, just as the stars guide sailors home, for in our hearts, her light shines on.