Isiah Gary Pinkey

Isiah Gary Pinkney Sunrise: April 20, 1949 Sunset: June 13, 2017 Gary Pinkney, beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend passed away on Tuesday, June 13, 2017 surrounded by family and loved ones. Son of the late Josephine Ford Pinkney and Isiah Gary “Cap” Pinkney was born on April 20, 1949 in the Bedford Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn, New York. He loved his childhood days in Brooklyn serving as a Boy Scout and as a member of the Drum and Bugle Corps of the Carter Cadets. His love of adventure and music would set the stage for his life's journey. In 1967 he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in Thailand. After completing his first tour of active service he returned to New York and worked at Mount Sinai Hospital. There he met his soul-mate and lifelong companion, Alice Pinkney. They married in 1972 and began to raise their growing family. Gary re-enlisted in the Army and in 1980 he was assigned to serve at Fort Lewis and moved his family to Washington State, where he remained. Gary loved the Armed Forces and especially serving as a mentor and guide to the younger recruits. He received numerous citations for valorous merit and leadership throughout his military career. When Gary returned full-time to civilian life he continued his passion of service to others and pursuing his dreams in the performing arts. As an occupational therapy group counselor in a Nursing facility where he touched many with his performance talents. He volunteered for many years as a leader in the community at the Tacoma Urban League helping youth achieve their full potential. Gary worked for over twenty years in the theatrical field as a performer, producer and director. He was a former owner of Able Videos of Tacoma and worked in television on Totally Hidden Videos, The Spud Goodman Show and Psychic Northwest Live in front of audiences and behind the scenes. He also produced and directed the Pentecostal Assembly of the World Bishop Board Conference for the Greater Christ Temple Church and Pacific Northwest District Council of the Pentecost. Gary performed as an actor, singer and dancer in the local Tacoma and greater Seattle area theater and in some productions alongside his daughter, Stacie Calkins. His credits include performance in productions of "The Wiz", "The Amen Corner", "Ain't Misbehavin", "Hello Dolly", "Guys and Dolls" and "Bubbling Brown Sugar" just to name a few. Gary was fearless in his pursuits and while busy with family and work he still made time to further his education and complete two Associates degree programs. The first degree in Arts and Science was received from Steilacoom Community College and the second in Camera and Video from the National Broadcasting School. After completing this later degree, Gary worked as a production intern at TCI Cable Television in Seattle, WA. Gary will be remembered for his boundless energy, his wittiness, talent and loving friendship towards all. His last days were spent surrounded by his extended family and friends. He expressed joy in seeing so many people he loved, reliving funny moments and just spending precious time together. This is not farewell. Gary is waiting on the other side with a smile and a funny story to welcome us all. Surviving Family Members: Martha Alice Pinkney Children: Daniel Rawlins, Stacie Calkins, Roxanne Pinkney, Novella Pinkney, DeShanel Carlisle, Nicole Bohanan and Sean Bohanan 16 Grandchildren and a host great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws. Sisters: Janis Pinkney and Javette Pinkney Laremont Half-Brothers and Sister: Padrick Pinkney, Gregory Pinkney and Audrey Pinkney Javette Laremont