Robert Pinkard

Robert E. Pinkard, 78, passed away on November 3, 2023. “Bob” was born on February 18, 1945, to Corene C. and Robert L. Pinkard. He was a native of Kosciusko, Mississippi. He moved to California when he was 14 years old and throughout his life he lived in Mississippi and California. He grew up attending Scotts Valley Baptist church and later, Santa Cruz Bible Church. He accepted Christ and was baptized in Scotts Valley Baptist Church in California.

Work was Bob’s biggest hobby; however, he also enjoyed fishing and hunting, especially with his younger brother and nephew. He hunted for upland game in California with his younger brother, niece, and nephew. In Mississippi, he hunted with cousins and other family members. In addition, he always seemed to enjoy having a fast car, listening to country music, and spending a lot of time with family. He thoroughly enjoyed reading Western series books and watching Western movies. Before becoming ill, he purchased property in Mississippi and had the dream of raising cattle.

Bob started working while he was still in high school; he became a truck driver for ‘Standard Lumber Mills. He hauled lumber and sawdust. He loved working for Gene and his good friend, Alvin Scarborough. After a few years, he and another friend, Mike Lefebre, became foremen for the logging department at Standard Lumber. Eventually, Mike and Bob started “P & L Excavating.” Due to the success and growth of their operation, they decided to open their own separate excavating business. Bob started “Robert Pinkard Excavating” where he had the help of yet another friend from youth, Geri Trueblood. His business was built on integrity and dedication; his achievement was apparent by the number of people who sought his work. Bob found his niche in his job. He loved creating house pads, building roads in challenging mountains terrains, and completing other types of work requiring dirt work.

Bob, while running Pinkard Excavating, hired and mentored Barrett Painter. Barrett, a quick study, modeled after Bob’s commitment to work and ethics. Barrett became a great friend, helping Bob and Diane whenever they needed assistance. As Bob saw that he was going to have to retire, he, in turn, was able to pass his clients on to Barrett and his new firm, Barrett Excavating.

Bob would appreciate any donations to be directed to the Smyrna  Cemetery fund c/o Donna Snuggs 500 North Huntington Street Kosciusko, Mississippi or to the Smyrna Church, and mailed to Gloria Sides, P.O. Box 905, Kosciusko, MS 39090