Michael James Pinckney

WATERFORD – It is with profound sadness that the family of Michael J. Pinckney, Sr. announce his peaceful passing on March 12, 2024, at the age of 70.

He was born in Albany, NY on April 9, 1953, to the late Andrew M Pinckney, Sr., and Alice McDermott Pinckney.

Mike graduated from Vincentian Institute in Albany in 1971 and went on to graduate from the Junior College of Albany in 1973. He was an Electrician by trade, which was fitting because he “lit up” the lives of everyone he met.

He was known for his quick wit, his sense of humor, his infectious smile, and his kind and compassionate spirit.

He loved playing golf, taking car rides to “nowhere,” taking amazing family vacations on the Disney Cruise to both the Eastern and Western Caribbean. Some of his favorite memories were spent on Cape Cod relaxing by the ocean and dining on the best lobster around. Mike had a love affair with coffee, and he could be spotted at every Stewart’s in the tri-city area. He should have been in the Guinness Book of World Records for having watched the most episodes of Law & Order (dun-dun).

Aside from spending time with his family, he had the best work ethic and truly enjoyed working. At the age of 16, he went to work at the gas station on Krumkill Road in Albany. To fulfill his childhood dream, he went out and bought a horse, much to the surprise of his family. He then bought a cowboy hat and was nicknamed the Marlboro Man. It was so apropos because he was so ruggedly handsome.

Mike is survived by his bride of 32 years, Debbie; his sons, Michael, Jr. and Sean (Katrina); his step-daughter, Brittany Stevens (Sean); his granddaughter, Natalie, who was the apple of his eye; his sisters, Cathy Morrison (Bill), Bethy Finkle (Steve), Peggy Gaudet (Jim); his sister in law Katy Pinckney; his mother-in-law, Joan Patregnani; his brother-in-law, Pat Patregnani; and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers, Andy, Bert, and Jimmy.

Mike’s wish was that we would never mourn his death but celebrate his life. A “Celebration of Life” in his honor is being planned for a future date.

Please consider a contribution to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.