Hedy Pinkerton Obituary

She was my food service officer. I went to Merced college because of her motivation. I will always remember her.

I was the WAF Squadron Clerk for Col. (then Lt) Pinkerton in 1974; I´m sorry I never thanked her for literally making me start college. Her encouragement and support changed my life, and I´ll always be grateful.

I loved Hedy. She was a close friend and mentor. She always made me smile, often made me laugh--sometimes at myself--and always had wisdom and insight to share. I miss her smile, her voice, and her presence. I know Heaven is brighter with her there.

Even after these years, I remember and miss Hedy. She and Jim were both mentors for me in my Air Force career but she was a dear friend. She had a way of getting into your spirit and making you trust her and letting you know she always had your best interest at heart. I will never forget her kindness and her help. T. (Gaines) Sykes

Please accept my deepest condolences…not only on behalf of the United States Air Force Academy Admissions Office, but also on behalf of those Air Force officers/leaders Col Pinkerton served during her tenure at the United States Air Force Academy. She was a great leader and friend and our Air Force continues to benefit from her service to cadets, culminating her military career as the first female Director of Admissions. She will be missed!

Sincerely,

I am SO sad to hear of Hedy's death. I loved this woman personally and was proud to call her a mentor professionally. Although we've not seen each other for years, I carried both her and Jim as role models and friends in my heart, and was immediately brought to tears at this news of "our" loss. Heaven is richer for it but we will feel her absence for a long time and the sun will shine a little less brighter for awhile without her smile and voice nearby. Rest in peace, dear one, and may God give Jim, Jason and all your loved ones peace as they cope with your loss.

I am shocked to see this. Colonel Pinkerton served her country well and I am proud to have known and serve with her. I was TDY in Italy and Hedy and Jim welcomed me in their home and she took the time to mentor and coach me in my career. She was a class act, a good friend, and a true professional. My best to Jim and the family.

Al Winzenried, SMSgt, USAF (ret)

Col. Pinkerton was a great leader and a great lady. She was my Food Service Officer and taught me a lot. Prayers to your family from ours.

Talk about a class act!! Hedy will be sorely missed for the honest and kind way she approached all. She has been a friend, mentor and confidante to me and countless others for many years. She was beautiful, in and out. Thanks for all the lives that were touched by this amazing woman. Jim, Jason and family: our prayers are with you as you struggle with this loss. Know that we are grieving with you.

I am at a loss for words. I cannot find the adjectives sufficient enough to describe Colonel Pinkerton's intellect, professionalism and kindness. She was truly one of God's sweetest gifts to the world. The Air Force was blessed to have her. In the time that she was here she blessed so many lives. I pray the peace that passes all understanding for her loved ones .I will always celebrate her life and acknowledge my great fortunate in having worked for such a great woman.

I am at a loss for words. I cannot find the adjectives sufficient enough to describe Colonel Pinkerton's intellect, professionalism and kindness. She was truly one of God's sweetest gifts to the world. The Air Force was blessed to have her. In the time that she was here she blessed so many lives. I pray the peace that passes all understanding for her loved ones .I will always celebrate her life and acknowledge my great fortunate in having worked for such a great woman.
Greta L. Hamilton

A lady of class who was a leader to admire. God bless the Pinkerton family in this time of loss.

A guide for others to follow. She will be missed. Chuck Hanlon

Rest in peace Colonel Hedy C. Pinkerton and may you walk among the finest company in Gods house with loved ones who have gone before you and the many fine friends you made throughout your Air Force Career. God Bless you and your family!

Edward Oliver
CMSgt, USAF, Retired

Hedy was a trail blazer both as a woman and a services officer. The Air Force was extremely fortunate to have her and she will be missed.

Thank you for your kindness. You always epitomized a great Air Force officer and a wonderful, classy lady. I will miss you. You meant a lot to me.
Barbara Bartley-Turkington

Great Person...Great Officer...Great Friend! Rest in Peace Hedy...Deepest Sympathy to Jim and family.