Jeannine McShane, 97, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2026, after a long and active life. Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on October 28, 1928, Jeannine grew up there and graduated from Mount Mercy College with a degree in chemistry. She put herself through college by working at Kauffman’s Department Store in Pittsburgh along with scholarships and help from a generous aunt, Aunt Nellie. She was on the debate team, on the Student Council and in the math, French and Latin clubs. After college she worked as a chemist at Westinghouse Bettis in Pittsburgh for several years.

She married William McShane in 1951. She brought great joy to Bill and together they raised six children. They made homes in Pennsylvania, New Hampshire, California, and finally Kennewick, where she lived for 56 years. She was a wonderful mother, a generous friend, and an inspiration to all she met.

An enthusiastic world traveler, Jeannine enjoyed trips with her husband, children and grandchildren, as well as solo adventures to Africa, South America and India. She was also an avid reader, gracious hostess, and dedicated volunteer at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. She loved children and taught religious education for 30 years, volunteered at Cascade Elementary School, led a pack of Cub Scouts, and hosted countless tea parties for little girls.

Jeannine’s Catholic faith guided her, and she remained curious and engaged with life until her death. She had an enviable memory, a quirky sense of humor, and always looked sharp. She did not like vegetables, except for peas and mashed potatoes, and frowned on crass language. Some of her favorite things were her roses, lunches with friends, Twix bars, and ice cream. She was always up for a good movie, a music or theater event, and dancing.

Jeannine is survived by her children and their spouses: Colleen McShane and husband David (Seattle), Jim McShane and wife Leslie (Missoula), Dan McShane and wife Lisa (Samish Island), Patty Ehlers and husband Kevin (Vancouver), Michael McShane and husband Gregoey (Junction City), and Katie McShane (Spokane); ten grandchildren; and four great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, William, in 1993, her sister Nellie in 2007, and her brother Walter in 2024.

Donations in Jeannine’s name can be made to St. Andrew’s Nativity School in Portland or one of her two favorite places in recent years: the Gesa Carousel of Dreams or the WSU-Master Gardener Demonstration and Rose Garden by Kennewick Library.