William H. Pinner

Published 10:16 am Friday, June 13, 2025

William H. Pinner (Bill), 97 years young, went peacefully to his heavenly Father, Friday, June 6, 2025, at his home in Vicksburg, Mississippi. He is survived by his beloved and devoted wife of 73 years, Beverly Cardella Pinner; six daughters, Ivy “Penny” Carter (Virgil), Debbie Murin (Charlie), Natalie Kraly (Stan), Lori Sketoe, Mary Beth Reeves (Gary) and Joan Johnson (Andy); his 13 grandchildren, Michael Hightower, Tiffany McCoy, Christopher Hightower (Jessica), Melissa Jacob (Rene), Matthew Hightower, Shawn Owen (Robbie), Daniel Murin (James), Jessica Reeves, Jared Reeves, Drew Johnson, Cody Sketoe (Monika), Kirsten McDaniel (Michal) and Sydney Sketoe (Michael Nguyen);  his 13 great-grandchildren, Landon Murin, Nicholas, Christian, Delilah and Madeline Owen, Isabelle and Blakely Hightower, Lucy, Mia, and Rock Jacob and Ava, Sophia and Scarlett Prunera.

Bill was born in New Orleans, Louisiana and was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Beverly Ann Pinner; father, Clay Anderson Pinner; mother, Delia Killeen Pinner; sister, Catherine Graham; and brothers, Clay, Edward, James  and Raymond Pinner. He is survived by his sister, Sylvia Foil.

Bill graduated from Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana in 1951 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and retained his certification as a Professional Engineer throughout his career. He was a World War II veteran with service in the United States Marine Corps and began his federal civilian career with the Army Corps of Engineers in New Orleans, in which he rose through the ranks from General, Civil, Hydraulic and Supervisory Hydraulic Engineer, retiring in 1986 in Vicksburg, Mississippi. He was a member of St. Paul Catholic Church.

Bill was a solitary man who found refuge in his daily reading of the Word. He enjoyed long walks and spending time with his growing family. He appreciated acts of service and often said “your presence is my present.” He had a keen memory and could still do complex math into his late eighties. He had a gentle spirit and was slow to complain. He was grateful to those who showed him kindness and helped him with daily needs, thanking them often especially his wife, who he called “my angel.”

In the hearts of those who knew him, he will be remembered for his quiet strength and unique perspective on life. Though he often kept to himself, his presence was a steady and reassuring force for those who loved him. His legacy is one of resilience and authenticity, and he will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. We find comfort in the memories we shared and the lessons he imparted, knowing that his spirit will continue to influence our lives.

We would like to acknowledge the tremendous support given to Bill by the Vicksburg Central Fire Department, Enhabit Hospice (specifically Yvonne, Melanie and Jennifer) and caretakers, JoAnn Turner and Beverly Davis as well as St. Paul  Catholic Church Homebound Ministry who faithfully brought the Eucharist to Bill’s bedside.

Visitation will be at Fisher-Riles Funeral Home, 5000 Indiana Ave. on Monday, June 16, 2025  from 5 to 7 p.m. with a rosary at 6:30 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, June 17 at St. Paul  Catholic Church at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Rusty Vincent officiating. Pallbearers will be Michael Hightower, Chris Hightower, Jared Reeves, Drew Johnson, Cody Sketoe and Dr. Daniel Murin.