Sam Pinkley

(From Knell Mortuary)

Samuel Pinkley, age 17, Carthage, Missouri, passed away on January 19, 2021 at his home.

Samuel was born in Joplin, Missouri, on May 3, 2003, to George and Amy Pinkley. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Lloyd and Grace Pinkley and an uncle, Franklin Pinkley.

Samuel is survived by his devoted parents, George and Amy, and his loving sister, Grace Ann Pinkley of the home; his grandmother Shirley Lawler of Springfield; grandfather Howard Lawler of Rogersville; three aunts Alyssa Timm, Kris Fowler, and Goldie Danner; one Uncle Bob Pinkley. He is also survived by a host of great aunts, uncles, and countless cousins, which include his cousin, Ronnie Timm who was Sam’s best friend for the past 12 years, and his great aunt Lois whom he considered a second grandmother.

Samuel Pinkley was known as an all-around good kid by everyone who knew him. His teachers all described him as an excellent student who was kind and considerate to everyone he met. One teacher once commented that she wished he had a classroom full of Sam Pinkleys. 

Sam maintained outstanding grades throughout his school years and had been accepted to college in Springfield for the fall semester. As a young child, Sam had the benefit of a stay-at-home mother who devoted herself to him and his sister’s early education. They all spent countless hours reading together, working on puzzles, and playing with other instructional games.

In addition to constantly working on assignments for school, Sam loved helping his father with lawn work for local residents, delivering firewood to neighbors, and helping with chores when items needed to be repaired. Sam never complained about working and was always happy to assist with a project around the house. Sam had a huge heart and was always concerned for other people.

A private family memorial service will be held for Sam on Saturday, January 23, at 1:00 pm, at Carthage Nazarene Church, Carthage, Missouri. Donations can be made to the Samuel Pinkley Memorial Scholarship Fund at Ozarks Technical Community College, Springfield, Missouri. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.