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Bill Pinkney Obituary
Pinkney was found dead at the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort, Daytona Beach Police spokesman Jimmie Flynt said. The death was not considered suspicious, he said.
Pinkney was scheduled to perform for Fourth of July festivities there.
Pinkney's manager, Maxine Porter, declined to discuss his cause of death, but said Pinkney had had health problems.
The Drifters, whose hits include ''Under the Boardwalk,'' ''Up on the Roof,'' and ''Save the Last Dance For Me,'' still performed Wednesday night. An announcement about Pinkney's death was made after the show, said the group's publicist, Donnie Lowery.
Pinkney, born in Dalzell, S.C., wasn't with The Drifters when they recorded their biggest hits. He left in the band in 1958 because of an argument over cash. His distinctive bass voice can be heard on the group's version of the holiday classic ''White Christmas.''
Even though he left the group, Pinkney didn't let go of The Drifters' name. He fought for laws allowing performers or bands to claim an affiliation with a classic group like The Drifters or The Coasters only if at least one member recorded with the original group.
The Drifters were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988.
Pinkney was a World War II veteran and pitched for the New York Blue Sox of the Negro Baseball League in the late 1940s and early '50s.
Porter said funeral arrangements were pending but that he would be buried in South Carolina.
Copyright © 2007 The Associated Press
263 Entries
Bob Friedman
February 5, 2020
I'm sorry for this late addition, to his family and friends. Bill and I almost sang together on a visit he made to Birmingham but it wasn't to be . He allowed us to have two separate conversations which are transcribed in the Birmingham Black Radio Museum. Those conversations I treasure because it was like we grew up together in the music.
Roberta Huskey
December 27, 2019
One of the greatest entertainers ever! Will be missed talked to him in Knoxville Tenn over 20 yrs ago.
Janet Berkley
December 21, 2018
We all have truly missed your voice, a great performer your songs are everlasting rest in peace
Rocco A
July 10, 2018
Thank you Bill your fan now and forever.....
How you can show support
Brian Barger
July 23, 2017
Did he ever live in Sunnyvale Ca
Anthony Taylor
July 4, 2017
Miss you Bill thank you for the travels taking me all over the world every state in the world oversees gigs more then 200 times
January 27, 2017
my wife and i met bill pinkney on a flight to vagas
we had a few drinks and he invited us to the 4 queens
where the org drifters were performing..and he sang a song he just made up about our good times together on
the flight..really a great guy will miss him dearly
Harry Simpson
July 10, 2016
Godspeed and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Rest Bill, until you hear at dawn,
the low, clear reveille of God.
Thank you for your service to this nation.
Tami Turnbull
March 28, 2015
So sorry to read (late) of Mr Pinkney's passing. I met him when he performed at my father's restaurant Oldies in Newport News VA (94) What a legacy he leaves us-- I will remember him fondly. Rest in Paradise Mr. Pinkney-- T.Turnbull
Rev. Velma Littles
December 12, 2014
I grew up listening to the music from the Drifters, and Bill Pinkney was a
legend of all times. My husband and I
had the pleasure of meeting him in
concert in Statesboro, Georgia in 2005
and it was a pleasure to have met him
and talk with him. I recently purchased
the CD, Fire Is Coming, and it is just
awesome. Rest in peace, one day I will
see my Dad and you again! To his family: God will take care of you! Harvey(Rev.Velma)Littles Register, Ga.
December 12, 2014.
December 4, 2014
May you R I P, I will always listen to your music .pop & gospel.
Thomas Lewis
Albany, GA
August 17, 2014
we will always love you forever.
gropu tag
April 7, 2009
hi, i am here
Lisa Pearson
September 19, 2008
Mr. Bill Pinkney, Although I never had the honor of meeting you, I have enjoyed your music many times over the years. You left so many wonderful memories for your family, friends & fans...The Legend will live on of a gifted, talented man with the unforgettable golden voice. I've read so much about your service, bravery, kindness, talents, personality & the contributions you've made to the music world & to mankind. I've had the pleasure of meeting and becoming good friends with your Grandson, Vernon. He, like you, is a talented musician and a brown-eyed, handsome man, with a beautiful voice, who can steal the show just like his Grandpa! :-) I know I'll meet you one day but until then, enjoy singing to the host of heaven and... say hello to my Dad!
Pamela L Reynolds
January 2, 2008
Mr Bill Pinkney, was mine and my husbands GOD FATHER. He will be truly missed. I know he went home to the LORD, and his HOME GOING was great one. GOD BLESS
Mr Bobbie j & Pamela L Reynolds
Mary Deaver
November 3, 2007
Bill you were truly a great man and a kind and dear friend and you are surely missed.your music will live on.you are singing in the Heavenly choir now and continuing to share your loving kindness.
Regina Byrd
July 29, 2007
I enjoyed our conversation and the music at the Byrd wedding in Hartsville,S.C. on June 30,2007. Will miss you lots!! Thank you for the music!!! Brenda Y. Munn
Tee Jackson
July 24, 2007
With deepest sympathy to the family of the late Mr. Bill Pinkney.
To the family:
Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. Bill loved the Lord. That was his conversation and that was his life. May the work he has done, speak for him.
You'll be missed Bill. Tell Butch hello and I'll see you both in the morning.
Love,
Tee
Dan Fries
July 21, 2007
Bill was really a great guy. I met him at the Houston Hilton in 1978. I went to interview him for a magazine called Goldmine, that I wrote for then. We ended up spending that whole day together playing oldies on his 8-track player. Bill was a true pioneer of the music we all love and he will be missed by many. Thanks for letting me share my memories of Bill.
Bill Massey jr
July 18, 2007
mr. Bill Pinkney You were 1 man that knew the music and how to be a true person, but never did you give anyone the chance to take what you had created, thru you as a simple man, and did not let anyone take that away from you. You are still alive in the hearts of all who knew you and your Love for the music and the people were there with you and without you. Irvin Berlin was a lucky man, but you wrer more than that it was you Bill Pinkney who did make it for you and your Drifters.you had Peace made Peace and now Rest in Peace . LOVE to you and sympathy from a friend in Jaxs,Fl.and E.Tn.
LINDA SHIELDS
July 16, 2007
I GOT THE CHANCE OF A LIFETIME A FEW YEARS AGO. I WAS MR BILL'S HOUSE GUEST WHAT A WONDERFUL FRIEND, I WILL MISS YOU. PRAYERS GO OUT TO THE PINKNEY FAMILY.
Ken Haney
July 16, 2007
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
NAYE WMS
July 15, 2007
SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT MR.PINKENY PASSING MAY GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY I WILL BE PRAYING FOR THE PINKNEY FAMILY
Mary Milburn
July 15, 2007
To the family of Mr. Pinkney,I am
greatly sorry for the loss of your family member,and a great entertainer .I last saw him a few years ago in Sumter, S.C.,and before
that in Las Vegas, and on many other
occasions.He will be sorly missed. but remember God makes no mistakes.Rest in peace Bill.
Barbara M
July 14, 2007
Bill you will be missed so. I have cerished the memories I have meeting you in Bath Co. Va. You made the audience feel like they all meant something to you. We went to a Dinner afterwards, and you made a point of taking time to talk to all. You may only be in our memories but your music will always be heaven to my ears.
Anthony Taylor
July 13, 2007
I had the pleasure of being your bass guitar player for 14 years I love you and will miss you
Gloria Moore
July 13, 2007
Family know that Mr. Pinkney will be missed thoughout the world.I had the opportunity to see him perform in Charleston a couple of years ago and what a inspiring performance to watch him step. May you forever be in God's care.
Vonnie Jenkins
July 13, 2007
My fondest memories of my father is he and I listening to the music of The Drifters, together.
Thank-you !
May you rest in Peace.
Paul McClain
July 13, 2007
May I add my Prayers and expression of sympathy to the family and musical friends of this great icon of this generation.
Grace Fitzgerald
July 13, 2007
I'll always remember meeting Mr. Pinkney and talking to him, Oh I was so excited just listening to him, he let us know he was the last of the original Drifters. I will never forget a man that was real, sincere and took the time with you and talk. Thanks for the moment.
Bernadette Lebron
July 12, 2007
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.
My thoughts and prayers are with the Pinkney family always.
Marion PINKNEY
July 12, 2007
Mr. Willie Pinkney and Family express their condolences and love also. We will all see you soon when we get to glory. Love, Gwendolyn, Marjorie, Marion, Willis, Wallace, and Joyce. The Pinkney's of Baltimore, Maryland
Rosa Simmons (Cousin) Daughter of Lilliemae Pinkney
July 12, 2007
In My Pocket
I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.
My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.
They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.
Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.
But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious.
Debra Herron
July 12, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with your family in their time of sorrow.
Chuck Goings
July 11, 2007
I just mixed the front of the house sound for Bill and The Drifters in Dublin NC the last of May. Bill sang a couple of songs from a stool, center stage, but then came back and walked the crowd for his final number. He was a great showman and he will be greatly missed by many generations of fans.
Harriet Spradley Thompkins
July 11, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Vanessa Williams
July 11, 2007
I was blessed to meet Mr. Pinkney in Los Angeles June 2003. He was so kind and so gracious to me, such a loving man! He invited myself and a friend to see the Drifter's perform at a private party. My deepest regrets for your lost. My warmest thoughts are with his family and friends.
Carlos Taxi
July 11, 2007
He was a great kegend in he music world. Ifirst met Bill Pinkney in Las Vegas about four year and remain firend with him. Rest in Peace.
Charles Hack
July 11, 2007
We were so sorry to hear today of Bill Pinkney’s passing on the July 4th. It was such shocking news. We last saw him in Denver about four year ago with him godson Bobbie Reynolds and, as usual, Mr. Pinkney stole the show when he came down into the audience to sing "Help Me Make It Through the Night." Will certainly miss Bill Pinkney and his wonderful music. Our prayers are with his family.
Gloria White
July 10, 2007
I am extending my deepest sympathy to Mr. Bill Pinkney's family and to all of the members of the "Original Drifters." I always call myself "No.1 Fan" from the host of dedicated friends and fans who make up the Fan Club group on Yahoo.Even though I never met Bill in person, I admired him as one of the most polished, gentile performers of all times. He will be truly missed by all of our group. As long as Bill's wonderful bass voice can be heard on "White Christmas", he will always be present with us. To be absent in the body is to be present with the Lord. Bill just went to join Clyde and all of the other "Original Drifters" to sing together in "Heavenly Harmony" in a joyous blending of those voices again.
Richard Lane
July 10, 2007
The Drifters were one of the first musical groups that I came to love and they taught me how to love music as well. Their sound was with me as I traved the world. Rest in PEACE and thanks for the tons of music that you gave to the world.
Carol Lambert-Walker
July 10, 2007
May God be with you and your family at this time of sorrow. What a voice, what a man...thank you for the songs and the memories of times passed.
JD Weston
July 10, 2007
Grew up listening to and loving the Drifters. Still playing the music now. Sympathy to the family.
John Britton
July 10, 2007
Rest in peace and may your good deeds never be forgotten.
Marie McBride
July 10, 2007
Another great performer in SOUL HEAVEN....
Shirley Horne
July 10, 2007
Your music will live in our hearts and souls forever.
Mary Ann Self
July 10, 2007
Combine the oldie beach music with a shiny Porsche, a sunny day,long blonde hair blowing in the wind, sparkling blue eyes and this 60 year old not only still looks like a teenager, but feels it too. Bill Pinkney will never die in our hearts and his music will forever lift our spirits and make us young.
g. s. hill
July 10, 2007
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Carrie Myers
July 10, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Curcelia Collins
July 10, 2007
Mr. Pinkney left a lasting impression on many people with his music. He will never be forgotten. May God welcome this fine musican home.
Debra Steadman
July 10, 2007
I loved Mr. Pinkney's music. My condolences to the family. He is in God's hands. I would not be surprised if he has joined the other members of the Drifters and they are singing up a storm!
Tyronne James
July 10, 2007
May GOD bless Mr. Pinkney's family.
GENE GILLIKIN
July 10, 2007
HE WAS A GREAT LEGEND IN BEACH MUSIC I REMEMEBER HIM AT THE PAVILON ON ATLANTIC BEACH IN THE 60, GREAT MUSIC
Katherine Fulmer
July 10, 2007
I had the honor to watch Mr. Pinkney preform at the Beach Music Awards. He will be missed by all.
thomas e. wood
July 10, 2007
wept do for a night but joy come in the moring just glad to had the opprint to have meet you
Ashley Overton
July 10, 2007
Every Christmas is a "White Christmas" when I play your song. RIP Bill. Tell Clyde I said hello
shelia lasenberry
July 10, 2007
mr. Bill Pinkney music touched everyone young and old,all over the world for many years,and will continue to do so.God bless the entire family and may God be with you all.
Letitia Tyler
July 10, 2007
Dear Bill,
your music is timeless, and you made a difference in my life, rest well Dear Sir, thank you, Tisha Tyler
[email protected]
The Henderson Family
July 10, 2007
Bill you were a great man. We always enjoyed your music. "Rest in peace." Love,
Kathy Richards
July 10, 2007
I grew up listening to his music as it was one of my Mother's favorites. May he sing for the Angels now.
Ginger Edwards
July 10, 2007
May God be with your family and friends. You have touched so many hearts with your music and mine was one of them. Thank you for the wonderful music.
Caroll Palmore
July 10, 2007
You taught me to love, no matter what anyone else said about it. You brought me joy instead of sorrow when you sang White Christmas for me in July, and now you bring me grief and yet happiness because you are gone from our lives here on earth but joy because you can now sing for eternity in heaven. I will miss you Bill, but thanks for all of the great memories.
PATRICIA MADRIGAL
July 10, 2007
BILL THANK YOU FOR ALL THE GREAT MELODIES,OUR CONDOLENCES GO OUT TO YOUR FAMILY.
Chuck & Marie Dukes
July 9, 2007
We have lost an icon of this state. He will be missed greatly, but his memory will live on through the great music he left us to enjoy. What a gift to leave to all the citizens of this country!!!! May God bless his family.
Gene and Patricia Marsh
July 9, 2007
Our sincere sympathy to the Pinkney family. We will always remember the first time we saw Bill Pinkney in person.
PAULETTE FENNER
July 9, 2007
WE HAVE LOST A GREAT MAN BUT NOW YOU ARE IN HEAVEN WITH THAT BIG VOICE OF YOUR'S GOD BLESS YOU AND FAMLILY
Earl Gregg
July 9, 2007
I'am sadden by the sudden death of mr. Bill Pinkney. And I 'am sending my condolence to the Pinkney Family. May God Bless this family!
vashita bell
July 9, 2007
bless your family
Michael Johnson
July 9, 2007
May your voice continue to radiate in heaven. God bless you
Alyce Thompson
July 9, 2007
To the family and friends of Mr.Bill Pinkney . We will miss his Golden voice that has lasted though out the years. May his voice sing for ever in our hearts and souls. We will miss him very much, May the Lord be with him.
Alyce D. Thompson
Karen White
July 9, 2007
I will always enjoy listening to your music and you will be greatly missed. You are with God now and he will enjoy every minute of music that you perform for him.
Willie & Melvin Williamson
July 9, 2007
Bill You will be truly missed, you has always been a permanent fixture at the reunions and an inspiration to us all. We will always love you.
Jean Wetherington
July 9, 2007
I will always cherish the memories of the songs I danced to in the 60's performed by this wonderful man and his band. R.I.P.
EULA JOSEPH
July 9, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
EULA JOSEPH
July 9, 2007
I ENJOYED YOUR SONGS BUT YOU ARE IN A GOOD PLACE NOW
Dick Austin
July 9, 2007
Thanks for the memories and the songs. I did get to see you perform in Asheville,nc. Be sure to tell the BIG man upstairs what it is like UNDER THE BOARDWALK!!!!!!!!
Terry Davis
July 9, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Thanks for the memories.'''rest in peace. Uncle Pink
Harry Reed
July 9, 2007
You and Your music will never be forgotten. You have gone on home, but your music will forever roam.
Charles Odom
July 9, 2007
WE ARE GOING TO MISS YOU MR. PINKNEY
Dan & Charlotte Ford
July 9, 2007
We are so sorry to learn of Dr.
Pinkneys passing. What cherished
memories we have of a real legend
of our times. Mr. Bill, as we loved
to call him will be remembered in
our hearts forever; as we enjoy
the beautiful music that his lovely
voice created. Maybe GOD will see
fit to reunite Bill with the late
Clyde McPhatter to create the best
gospel group in heaven. Mr. Bill,
may you now rest in peace my friend.
Linda N. Holland
July 9, 2007
To the family and friends of Mr.Bill Pinkney will miss his Golden voice that has lasted though out the years. May his voice sing for ever in our hearts and souls. We will miss him very much, May the Lord be with him.
Marjorie Owens- Barker
July 9, 2007
Thanks for your beautiful and romantic music.
EDDIE JOHNSON
July 9, 2007
MAY GOD BLESS AND KEEP YOU IN PRAYER EDDIE R. JOHNSON
GEORGE THOMPSON
July 9, 2007
Bill friendly actions and words will always be with me. A small town guy that he made fill very big. My sympathy to the family and all his close friends.
Love
George(Chief)Thompson
Margaret McClintock
July 9, 2007
what pleasure you gave through your singing,you will be missed. take your rest, god bless.
Kathy Walker
July 9, 2007
My Condolences and Prayers go out to the Pinkney Family, My God Bless and Keep You During this diffucult time.
Thank You Bill Pinkney for all the love....
the brookhouses
July 9, 2007
Thanks for all the songs(music that we will treasure , with our youth...Go with GOD...
D.L. ZIMMERMAN
July 9, 2007
REST IN PEACE BILL PINKNEY
ray interlandi
July 9, 2007
In My Pocket
I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.
My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.
They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.
Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.
But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious.
AnToneyo Darryl Johnson
July 9, 2007
When me & and my daddy (The Johnsonaires) had to sing, I've gotten to see many legends perform and he was one. My dad talked about him alot. We will missed him.
Teresa Ebron
July 9, 2007
I had the privledge of seeing him a couple of times. He will be missed.
ER
July 9, 2007
Class!
Joanne Waugh (Henry)
July 9, 2007
Many memories over the years and friendships that enure through time all because of Bill and his humanity. My deepest sympathy to Bill.s family and loved one. My life has been blessed through my knowing you all.
Catherine Filer
July 9, 2007
Thanks for the memories.'''rest in peace. Catherine Glover Filer.
clifford gibbs
July 9, 2007
May the Creator let you rest in peace
L. Reed
July 9, 2007
Pinkney Family,
Sorry about your great lost.
May God hear your prayers and see your tears, to give you all the needed strenght to endure in this time of such deep sorrow.
Do not make song like the Drifters anymore. Great memories,come to mind listening to them.
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