Source: http://www.onlinemadison.com/main.asp?Search=1&ArticleID=19778&SectionID=16&SubSectionID=16&S=1

W.O. Pinkston

W.O. (Pinkie) Pinkston, 92, of Ridgeland, died Saturday, Jan. 12, 2008, in Mississippi Baptist Medical Center. Services were held Thursday, Jan. 17, at Trace Ridge Baptist Church with graveside services following in Oxford Memorial Cemetery. Wright and Ferguson Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Mr. Pinkston was born Jan. 31, 1915, in Bells, Tenn. and was a graduate of Bells High School. A member of the greatest generation, Mr. Pinkston served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II. A soldier in the 4th Division, he landed on Utah Beach on June 6, 1944. His division was the first allied unit to assault German forces on the Normandy Beaches and was the first American unit to participate in the liberation of Paris. Mr. Pinkston also fought in the Battle of the Buldge, Hurtgen Forest and on German soil. He was an active member of the 4th Infantry Division Association.

Mr. Pinkston worked as a linotype operator for the Oxford Eagle until 1959 when he began working for the Commercial Appeal. He retired from the Commercial Appeal in 1980. While living in Oxford, he was a member of the First Baptist Church where he served as an usher.

After retirement, Mr. and Mrs. Pinkston moved to Ridgeland to be close to their family. He began working for Wal-Mart in Ridgeland as a greeter. He was a member of Trace Ridge Baptist Church and was active in the Men's Sunday School class.

Survivors include his wife of almost 60 years, Valeria Chappell Pinkston of Ridgeland; son, Dr. William C. (Chappie) Pinkston of Ridgeland; one grandson; and several nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to Trace Ridge Baptist Church, 238 Lake Harbour Dr., Ridgeland, MS 39157.