John Dutton Brinkerhoff Jr.

A Celebration of Life for Mr. John Dutton Brinkerhoff, Jr., will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, March 31, 2025, in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, with Reverend Jack Miller officiating. Interment will follow in Greenwood Memorial Park, Pineville, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.
With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for the life he lived, we, the family of John Dutton Brinkerhoff, Jr., announce his passing on Monday, March 24, 2025, at the age of 81, at his home in Deville, Louisiana, surrounded by those who loved him most.
Born on October 1, 1943, on Vashon Island, Washington, John lived a life marked by strength, selflessness, and unwavering devotion to faith, family, and service. He was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force and the Louisiana National Guard, and a dedicated servant to his community for nearly forty years in fire service-working with the Alexandria Fire Department, Pineville Fire Department, VA Fire Department, and volunteering with the Ball and Deville Volunteer Fire Departments.
John also served faithfully for over two decades as a member and chairman of the board for Families Helping Families at the Crossroads, advocating for individuals with disabilities and their families. His humble leadership and compassion made a lasting impact that will continue to bless others for generations to come.
A devoted follower of Christ, John's faith was evident in the way he lived his life-steadfast, loving, and committed to caring for others without hesitation or need for recognition.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John Dutton Brinkerhoff, Sr. and Athalea Carruth Brinkerhoff.
He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Miller Brinkerhoff of Deville, Louisiana. He also leaves behind his beloved children: Nancy Brinkerhoff-Force (Thomas) of Pineville, John David Brinkerhoff (Kimberly) of Celina, Texas, Rebecca Brinkerhoff of Pineville, Amy Brinkerhoff Tynes (Bucky) of Monroe, Marilyn Herboldsheimer Brennan (Jaba) of Pineville, Micki Herboldsheimer Johnson of Pineville, and Mindy Herboldsheimer Belgard (Mark) of Deville. He is also survived by his brother, Robert Brinkerhoff (Judy), and his sister, Susan Brinkerhoff Levin (Barry).
He was a proud and present grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and great-uncle to a plethora of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews-each one a cherished piece of his heart and the legacy he leaves behind.
To us, he was not just husband, father, or grandfather; he was our foundation. The one who never wavered. The one who led by example. The one whose strength held us together and whose love gave us the confidence to stand tall.
A time of visitation will be held in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, on Monday, March 31, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until time of service.
Pallbearers honored to serve are: Alex Brennan, Kurt Brennan, Luke Brinkerhoff, Matthew Force, Jonathan Perkins, and Caleb Tynes. Honorary pallbearers will be Mark Belgard, Jaba Brennan, John David Brinkerhoff, Thomas Force, and Bucky Tynes.
We, his family, extend our deepest gratitude to CHRISTUS Hospice St. Frances Cabrini for their compassionate care, guidance, and support in his final days. Their kindness will never be forgotten.
We rejoice knowing that he is now whole and at peace, resting in the arms of his Savior. Though we will miss him beyond words, we carry his strength and his love with us always.
Well done, good and faithful servant. We'll carry your light.
Rather than flowers, please help us celebrate his life by making a memorial donation in his
honor to Families Helping Families, 2840 Military Hwy., Pineville, LA 71360 (1-800-259- 7200).
Friends may post online messages of condolences for the Brinkerhoff family by visiting www.rushfh.com