Richard "Uncle Shorty" Pinckney, Jr.

Richard Pinckney Jr., affectionately known as “Shorty” or “Uncle Shorty”, was born on April 3, 1948, in Rembert, South Carolina. He was the beloved son of the late Richard Pinckney, Sr. and the late Mary Butler Pinckney.

A proud graduate of Ebenezer High School Class of 1967, Richard answered the call to serve his country immediately upon graduation by enlisting in the United States Army. His commitment to duty and love for his country defined a distinguished military career spanning almost three decades. During his service, he attained the rank of E-8 and honorably retired. He continued his dedication to service in the Army Reserve at Fort Jackson.

Richard served with honor in Vietnam and was the recipient of several commendations, reflecting his bravery and sacrifice. He later served as a drill sergeant, where he took great pride in training and mentoring newly enlisted soldiers, leaving a lasting impact on many who followed in his footsteps.

Following his military retirement, Richard returned home and began a second career with Becton Dickinson as a maintenance mechanic, where he worked faithfully before retiring. In his later years, he devoted himself to his family, friends, and the simple joys of country living. He found great happiness on his farm, tending to his cows, riding his “mule” and Kubota tractor, and working on cars for family and friends.

In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by two brothers, Joseph Pinckney and Willie Thomas Pinckney; and one sister, Mary Pinckney Grayson.

Richard “Shorty” Pinckney, Jr., 78, departed this earthly life on Sunday, April 26, 2026 at his home.

Richard leaves to cherish his memory two sisters, Janie Pinckney (Eugene) Fulton of Randallstown, Maryland, and Deloris Pinckney James of Baltimore, Maryland; one sister-in-law, Cornelia Howard Pinckney of Dalzell, South Carolina; and a host of aunts, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends. Richard also leaves to cherish his memory a number of special friends and loved ones whose lives he touched deeply, many of whom lovingly knew him as a father figure.