Kinney, Roy Iburn's Obituary
Our loving husband, father, and grandfather, Roy Iburn Kinney, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, June 1, 2025 at the age of 90.
Born December 21, 1934 on the family farm in Sayre, Oklahoma, Roy was the youngest of six children born to Bernice Elizabeth Hartman Kinney and John H Kinney. He spent his early years on the family farm until an accident and illness around ages 4 & 5 took his hearing. Not long after, his parents moved him to Sulphur, Oklahoma, where he attended the Oklahoma School for the Deaf.
At OSD, Roy was known as “the tall guy” and found joy in photography, basketball, and football. After graduation, he continued his education at Oklahoma A&M Technical College in Okmulgee, where he studied linotype printing—a path that led him into a long and dedicated career in newspapers.
It was during his time at Oklahoma A&M that fate stepped in—on Memorial Day weekend at Lake Texoma, Roy met Tsianina Ann (Ginger). It was love at first sight. After just three months, Roy proposed. Though Ginger initially said no, his persistence paid off, and they married in October 1969. He often said Ginger was “the smartest woman I know,” and they shared 55 years together.
Roy worked for several newspapers over the years, including the Sherman Democrat and the Tulsa World, and was proud of his trade. He went on to work for other Tulsa area businesses including Nordam, Owasso Public Schools and Reasors.
Together, he and Ginger raised two daughters, Serena Joyce Kinney Reynolds and Annalisa Jo Kinney Neal—both of whom inherited his wit and strength.
Roy was a hard worker and a faithful follower of Christ. His joys in life included his family, OU football, Braum’s chocolate malts, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, RC Cola, bingo, and fond memories of his old Studebaker. He was a longtime member of the Park Church of Christ Deaf Ministry, where he found community and close friendship. Roy also was a Sertoma Club
member and an avid attendee of Silent Dinners put on by The Center. Roy appreciated when hearing individuals made the effort to learn ASL and was often found teaching those who provided care to him in his final years.
Roy’s sense of humor, strong will and quiet strength endeared him to those who met him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Bernice, and his siblings: Paul Kinney, Opal King, Martha Caughran, Carroll Kinney, and John H Kinney Jr.
He is survived by his wife Tsianina; Daughter Serena Kinney Reynolds, her husband Mike, and their children Garrett, Robert (Robby), Samuel (Sam), and Cheyenne; Daughter Annalisa Neal, her husband Darren, and their children Audrey, William (Will), Myles, and Hailey; Great-grandchildren Louisa and Jonah Neal.
Roy lived a life of purpose, love, and perseverance—and now rests in peace.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” – 2 Timothy 4:7
Visitation will be held at Floral Haven Funeral Home from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
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