Daniel Leland Pinkston, Jr.

Daniel Leland Pinkston, Jr., known affectionately as Danny, lived a life that was robust with love, adventure, and service. Born on September 16, 1968, in Dade City, Florida, Danny was a beacon of light to all who knew him. His journey on this earth came to an unexpected end on October 3, 2024, in Dothan, Alabama, but the legacy he leaves behind will continue to inspire and uplift.

Danny's life was grounded in the values of family, friendship, and patriotism. He married his high school sweetheart, Wendy Shultz Campbell, and together they navigated life's adventures for over 37 years, creating a family that was his pride and joy. His sons, Joshua Pinkston and Tyler Pinkston, were the embodiment of his spirit and love. He delighted in the laughter and energy of his grandsons, Daimien, Samuel, Gabriel, Memphis, and Maverick, leaving them a treasure trove of cherished memories.

His mother, Mickey Pinkston, his brothers Jamie (Shelley) Pinkston, Brent (Missi) Pinkston, and his extended family, including mother-in-law, Jackie Doherty, sister-in-law, Candi (Eddie) Bedford, brothers-in-law, Ernest Shultz, Jr., Matthew (Courtney) Shultz, and cousin, “Cuz”, Donnie (Angie) Strickland, along with many aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews, all knew the warmth of his generous heart. His best friends, Bryan (Lisa) Robichaud, Tommy (Suzy) Quick, Wade (Kim) Willis, and Lorne Malec will forever remember the bonds of unwavering friendship they shared with Danny. He was preceded in death by his father, Daniel Pinkston, Sr., by his grandfather, Dale Plymesser, his grandmothers, Mary Sharp and Anne Mieshbuhler, and by his father-in-law, Ernest Schultz, as well as his cherished friends, Jeff Conners, James Walton, and Richard Freed, who left too soon.

A graduate of Zephyrhills High School in Zephyrhills, Florida, Danny's life was a testament to commitment and resilience. His service as a US Marine Veteran, participating in the 1st Gulf War Desert Storm, exemplified his courage and dedication to his country. For over 32 years, he worked at CF Industries/Mosaic, rising to the role of Production Supervisor at the chemical fertilizer plant, where his leadership was both respected and valued.

Danny was a man of many passions. He loved the thrill of hunting deer, the serenity of boating, and the joy of fishing. His family gatherings were a cornucopia of love, laughter, and his much-loved cooking. A Harley Davidson enthusiast, he found freedom on the open road. An avid sports fan, he cheered with fervor for his favorite football teams, the Buccaneers and the Florida State Seminoles. Above all, he cherished the company of his friends, with whom he shared life's greatest moments.

Courageous, loving, and friendly—these words only begin to describe the man that Danny was. He approached life with a vigor that was contagious, embodying the essence of a motivational speaker's call to live fully. As Helen Keller once said, "Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all." Danny lived by this creed, embracing each day as an opportunity for adventure and connection.

Danny Pinkston's life was a journey of love, laughter, and unwavering courage. His story reminds us that our time here is precious and that we should live it with passion and purpose. Let us honor his memory by living as he did—with hearts wide open, ready to love, serve, and embrace the adventure of life. Danny's spirit will continue to guide us, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A celebration of Danny's life will be held on Saturday, October 26, 2024 at 11am at Fair Haven Baptist Church, 34927 Elland Blvd, Zephyrhills, FL 33541.