Senate Resolution No. 1216

BY: Senator PARKER

MOURNING the death of William H. Pinkney,
distinguished citizen and devoted member of his
community

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
citizens of the State of New York whose lifework and civic endeavor
served to enhance the quality of life in their communities and the great
State of New York; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is moved to mourn the death of
William H. Pinkney, distinguished citizen and devoted member of his
community; and

WHEREAS, William H. Pinkney, affectionately known by many as Soaky
was one of 11 children born to the late Charlotte, and Leroy Pinkney;
and

WHEREAS, Born on June 19, 1944, in Roslyn, New York, William H.
Pinkney was a graduate of the Glen Cove Public School System; and

WHEREAS, Soon after graduation, William H. Pinkney enlisted in the
United States Army and proudly served his country from July of 1965
until July of 1967 as an Infantryman of the 4th Division of Infantry;
and

WHEREAS, William H. Pinkney distinguished himself in his profession
and by his sincere dedication and substantial contribution to the
welfare of his community; and

WHEREAS, Upon his departure from the service, William H. Pinkney
found employment with the New York Parks and Recreation Department,
retiring in 1994; and

WHEREAS, William H. Pinkney met the love of his life, the former
Kathrine Odom; on February 8, 1985, the couple got married and out of
this union came three children: Joaquin Pinkney, Dwight Pinkney, and
Sidon Pinkney; and

WHEREAS, William H. Pinkney was the beloved father and grandfather
of Nikita Jones (grandson Isaiah, granddaughters Briana, and Queen
Zion); Walt Vashon Jones; Massi Jones (grandson Massi, Jr.); and Honori
Jones; and

WHEREAS, William H. Pinkney's commitment to excellence, and his
spirit of humanity, carried over into all fields of enterprise,
including charitable and civic endeavors; and

WHEREAS, Since 1996, William H. Pinkney faithfully served as a
member of Open Door Church of God in Christ, Brooklyn New York, and was
ordained a Deacon on May 8, 1997; he remained to be a devoted servant
until his earthly departure; and

WHEREAS, Predeceased by one daughter, Tracy Howerton, William
Pinkney is survived by his wife and children, grandchildren, and two
sisters, Joan Rhinehart, and Rose Marie Houston, as well as many
nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends; and

WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of
compassion, William H. Pinkney leaves behind a legacy which will long
endure the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all
he served and befriended; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of William H. Pinkney, distinguished citizen and devoted
member of his community, and to offer its sincerest condolences to his
family; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of mourn the death of William H. Pinkney.