Larry L. Pinkerton, 86, passed away on Monday, Nov. 13, 2023, at Indiana University Methodist Hospital, Indianapolis.
Born on June 9, 1937, in Warsaw, he was the son of John and Norma Adams Pinkerton. He attended Warsaw High School, graduating with the class of 1955. Larry went on a football scholarship to Ball State University, receiving his master’s degree in education; he also played on the baseball and basketball teams. During a party at Ball State, he met Beth through a mutual friend, and as they say, the rest was history. On Feb. 5, 1961, he married Beth in Warsaw, they shared 62 years of marriage together.
For 37 years Larry dedicated his life to teaching, mentoring and coaching at the high school level. Working in Muncie, Griffith, Monticello and finding his way to Plymouth where he served as principal for 19 years before retiring in 1996. During his years spent as a principal at Plymouth High School, he served in various leadership positions for the IHSAA and helped further the opportunities for student athletes at PHS and everywhere in the state. He was a recipient of the Sagamore of Wabash for his leadership in education. After retiring from teaching, he went to work for Awards America and made sure to hand deliver the school awards throughout the state.
Larry was a laid back, quiet and an easy-going man that tried to emulate the late UCLA coach John Wooden’s Pyramid of Success. In his spare time, you could find Larry playing 18 at his favorite golf course.
Larry was a member of the Plymouth School Board, First United Methodist Church in Plymouth, American Legion Post #27, Loyal Order of Moose 741, Kiwanis, Plymouth Country Club, IHSAA Board of Directors, Indiana Secondary School administration.
He is survived by his wife, Beth, of Plymouth; sons: Christopher Pinkerton, of Plymouth; Nick Pinkerton, of Plymouth; Charlie (Laura) Pinkerton, of Fishers; sisters: Karen Baum, of Greensboro, N.C.; Lana Griswold, of Cincinnati, Ohio; grandchildren: Makenzie and Logan Pinkerton, of Fishers.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents.
Visitation will be held on Friday, Nov. 17 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home, 1100 N. Michigan St., Plymouth. Funeral services will immediately follow with Pastor Lauren Hall officiating.
Burial will take place in the New Oak Hill Cemetery, Plymouth.
Memorial contributions may be given to Plymouth High School in c/o Building Trades, 1 Big Red Drive, Plymouth, IN 46563.