John Pinkerton

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

John Ellis Pinkerton, age 84, passed away Tuesday, June 14, 2022 in Joplin, MO.

John was born on August 10, 1937 in Shelton, WA. He grew up in the Baw Faw Valley. Attended the Boistfort schools through High; Joined the Navy in 1955 and toured the pacific; was discharged in 1957.

He was an owner/operator for 30 years and contracted with Lonestar/Ranger. He won several awards for safe driving with over 3 million miles without an accident. He served as Interim Pastor for the Augusta Church of God for one year and as Pastor of the Grove Church of God for the last 14 years.

He enjoyed music, crocheting, needlepoint, and various craft projects. One of which won an award at the 2017 Delaware County Fair. His love for sharing the Bible was evident as he preached sermons that reached far beyond his community. As a result, he was invited to preach in India and at the age of 80 traveled there to proclaim Christ. He persevered through sickness and shared his love for Jesus. It was a highlight of his life.

He married Beatrice February 19, 1972 in Wichita, Kansas. They were married for 40 years until her death in 2012. Prior to moving to Grove, OK they made their home in Wichita, KS. John became father to five children; Jessie Saylor, Sandra Schmidt, Sam Saylor, Marilyn Pinkerton, and Danny Saylor. While the four older children were married, he became dad to Danny when he was only 8 years old.

He was proceeded in death by his parents; John M. and Josephine Pinkerton. His wife, Beatrice; sons; Jessie and Danny Saylor; daughter; Sandra Fisher, sister; Nella, and brother; Larry. John is survived by brother; Glen (Marilyn) Pinkerton, Joplin, MO; sister; LuAnne (Kelly) Ledgerwood, Kettle Falls, WA and step-son; Sam (Penny) Saylor, Bismarck, ND. He is also survived by 7 Grandchildren and several Great Grandchildren.

He is also survived by his fiancée; Betty Stacy and her sons; Danny, Dennis, and Terry who were like family to him.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m., Saturday, June 18, 2022, at the Derfelt Funeral Home, Baxter Chapel, Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m., Monday, June 20, 2022 at the Derfelt Funeral Home, Baxter Chapel. Bishop David Jarvis will officiate.

A Celebration of life will be held 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 22, 2022, at the Harbor of Hope Ministries Church 6821 Hwy 59 North, Grove, OK.

Funeral services are under the direction of the Derfelt Funeral Home, Baxter Chapel.