Deanna Marie McKinnon was born in Hoopa on December 26, 1967. On August 30, 2026, Deanna peacefully began her journey home at her home, surrounded by the love of those closest to her.

Deanna was a cherished daughter, sister, partner, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend. She will be remembered for her unwavering strength, resilient spirit, distinctive sense of humor and the warmth she brought to the lives of those who knew and loved her. She faced life with a fiery spirit, stayed true to herself and lived life in her own unforgettable way.

Throughout her life, Deanna created countless memories filled with laughter, love and joy. Her life, like all lives, had its difficult moments, but she and her loved ones faced those challenges together, finding strength in one another and continuing forward.

Deanna took great pride in being a grandmother and often spoke with love and affection about each of her grandchildren. They held a special place in her heart. The love, laughter and memories she shared with them will remain a cherished part of their lives and of the family’s memories for generations to come.

Deanna had a great work ethic and had many jobs including but not limited to working in many restaurants, motels and Hoopa modular plant but her greatest accomplishment came from being a part of the union as a flagger. You could catch her in the early morning hours or late into the night with a wave. This gave her much more time at home which is where she always wanted to be.

Deanna’s devotion to her family was at the heart of who she was. She will be remembered for the way she loved fiercely, stood strong through adversity and brought her own one-of-a-kind humor and spirit into the lives of those around her. Her presence touched many lives, and her memory will continue to live on through the stories shared, the laughter remembered and the love she gave so freely.

Deanna was preceded in death by her grandparents Winona Davis Martin and Frank O’Neill; biological father, Duane McKinnon; her father, Walter “Jenkins” Potts; her brothers, Howard O’Neil, Lawrence Potts and William “Joe” Lisenbee; and her sister, Loretta Potts.

She is survived by her mother, Mary Green (Harold); her partner, Ruben Sanders; her children, Andrew (Trish), Amanda, Garrick and Kyra (Eric); her beloved grandchildren, John, Edgie, Andrew, Eric, Terisa, Garrick, Eliana, Alisa and Ari; her siblings, Leola O’Neil, Lowell Potts, Zachary Potts (Gabrielle), Velda McKinnon, Juliet Maestas (Jerry) and Connie McKinnon (Arnold); and many nieces and nephews.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at St. Joseph Hospital and K’ima:w Medical Center, who cared for Deanna with kindness, dignity and compassion. The family would also like to express sincere appreciation to PRC and Vynca for their support and care.

Deanna’s life was defined by love, laughter, family and an unforgettable spirit. While her passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who loved her, the love she shared and the memories she created will remain with her family and friends always.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Details will be announced when arrangements have been finalized.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Deanna McKinnon’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.