Dolores "Jean" (Brown) Pinney

Dolores Jean (Brown) Pinney of Hermiston, Oregon was born June 5, 1926 in Weed, California to parents, Raymond and Goldie (Sparks) Brown. She died Wednesday, February 15, 2017 in Hermiston at the age of 90.
Jean graduated as valedictorian in 1944 from Irrigon High School. After one year at Eastern Oregon College in La Grande, Oregon she moved to Los Angeles where Great-Aunt Elva operated a beauty shop. Jean became a fashion model and was selected Miss Hollywood at age 21, receiving a month’s vacation in Hawaii.
After moving to New York City where her father’s sister Blanche (stage name: Ruth Chandler) performed in stage plays, Jean became a Powers Model and had photos placed in many magazines. She became a cover girl on several magazines, including Minicum Photography, Pageant, and Redbook.
Jean moved back to Los Angeles where she met her husband, Robert Pinney, whom she married in 1951. After moving to San Francisco, they became architectural contractors in that area. Among many other accomplishments, Jean was an expert seamstress.
After her husband’s death in 1996, Jean moved to Hermiston to be closer to her brother Bob and his family.
Preceding Jean in death were her parents, step-father, several stepsisters, husband, nephew Gary Brown, and her brother Robert “Bob” Brown.
Jean is survived by her niece Vickie and nephew Daryl, stepsister Patty, sister-in-law Ellen, numerous great-nephews, a great niece, and several cousins.
The family thanks the Good Shepherd staff, Guardian Angel care givers, and Vange John Hospice for their care. Special thanks are also extended to Jean’s helpful neighbors and Burns Mortuary staff.
Family & friends will remember Jean’s many talents and accomplishments during her long life. More Alzheimer’s research does need to be continued for the benefit of many.
A graveside Celebration of Life service for family & friends will be conducted on Saturday, March 25, 2017 at 11:00 A.M. at the Hermiston Cemetery where she will be interred by her beloved husband.
Please send condolences at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston, Oregon is in care of arrangements.

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