Don Pinkston Memorial
Donald Cox Pinkston, age 76 of Loudon, passed away Thursday, November 26, 2020.
Born to the late Lane Cox and Laura Ann (Black) Pinkston in Atlanta, Georgia. Don graduated from UT Knoxville with a degree in Transportation and Logistics. During his college days at UT from 1963-1967, he ran track and still holds the record for the four-man mile relay, where he was the kicker.
Don was an avid Southern Railroad enthusiast. He spent many hours walking the tracks with his sons collecting date nails. He had an extensive collection of Southern Railway memorabilia, with a passion for model railroading. Don was part of a group of men that restored a steam locomotive, and as part of his 41-years working with Pittsburg Paint and Glass (PPG) in Lake Charles, LA, he was involved in railroad tank car transportation, as well as shipping barges during the latter part of his career.
Don was gifted with artistic abilities. He demonstrated his talent with painting of canvas work and river rock. He also painted the murals at the traffic department at PPG for Christmas every year. Don was also talented with wood working, where he made several full-sized nativity scenes for display at home and church. He often sketched things he encountered in life and could almost bring to life the images he drew. Some of his skills and abilities are reflected in the artwork produced by his grandchildren.
Don was actively involved in youth sports. For many years Don was the manager of the Ward 4 recreation ballpark in Sulphur, LA. The ballpark bordered the house where the boys grew up, and during the baseball season he would walk to the ballpark and spend many hours with coaches and players, and even ran the concession stand. He also enjoyed coaching basketball, and you could find him on many nights at the Hazel Street gym either running the clock or coaching a team.
Most importantly, Don expressed his faith in the Lord in both his actions and words. He loved biblical history and prophecy. He was a Sunday School director and teacher for the youth while his sons were growing up at their church. Don read his Bible daily and centered his life on the study of God’s Word. He was passionate about knowing the Truth, he diligently sought to know the Truth, and would openly share his faith with everyone he met. Those who worked with Don knew that he was a follower of Christ. Don reflected our Savior’s example by his generosity towards others and would do anything for his neighbor, expecting nothing in return. Both David and Daniel know what it means to be a follower of Christ because their dad showed them, there can be no greater legacy for a man than this.
His life-long friend from elementary school in east Knoxville, Mickey Shelton, and another high school friend, Don Murray, were both cherished friends. Don appreciated all of the memories he made with his friends. The family is grateful for all the help and support both have given during this difficult time.
Don was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Glen M. Pinkston. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Margaret (St. Clair) Pinkston, Loudon; sons and daughters in-law, David and Dena Pinkston, Mt. Juliet, TN, Daniel and Jennifer Pinkston, Loudon, TN; grandchildren, Ethan, Erin, Claire, Sarah, Julianna, Rebecca, and Natalie Pinkston.
A private graveside service was held in Berry Highland South Cemetery with Rev. Mark Caldwell officiating.
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