Obituary of Matthew Wallace Pinkman III

In Loving Memory of Matthew “Sonny” Wallace Pinkman III 

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved “Sonny” who left this world on November, 30th 2023 with his family by his side. Matthew was a cherished member of our family, a dear friend, and a pillar of our community. His departure has left a void that can never be filled, but his memory will forever be etched in our hearts.

Born on January, 7th 1932, in Morristown, NJ.  Matthew was a beacon of light from the very beginning. He possessed a kind and gentle spirit that touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Matthew had an unwavering dedication to his family, always putting his loved ones' needs before his own.  

Son of Matthew W Pinkman II and Arlena Groves. He was a proud alumnus of Hackettstown High School in Hackettstown, NJ and graduate of Montclair State University in Montclair, NJ where he received his bachelors and Masters in education. Soon after graduating from Montclair, Matthew began teaching at the Hackettstown Middle School, where he worked for 36 years before retiring as Principal in 1990. He was the first black administrator in Warren County, NJ and surrounding areas. 

Throughout his life, Matthew was known for his steady work ethic and commitment to education. He pursued his  passions as an educator with vigor and determination, leaving an indelible mark on all of his students and co-workers he touched.

Beyond his professional achievements, Matthew was a true friend to many. His passion to support his community was evident through his family’s countless acts of kindness by teaching and fostering many young children in need of a happy and healthy home. Though his physical presence may be gone, his spirit will continue to guide and inspire us all.

In his free time, Matthew enjoyed carpentry, gardening, watching westerns, cooking, reading, and spending time with his family.  He will be sorely missed. 

Mr Pinkman is survived by his son, Darrien, daughter ‘s Xochil and Beth, daughter in law Megan, sisters, Ethel, Mary, Ina, Sue, goddaughter, vernette, grandchildren; Darrien Jr, Hester, and Caesare, and a host of other family members and friends who will carry his memory in their hearts. Matthew was preceded in death by his wife, Eunistine Pinkman (Robinson), sisters Evelyn, Martha, Louise, and sons Devon and Darren.

A Memorial Service of Mathew's life will be held on Saturday, December, 9th at Knoll-DeVoe Funeral Home and Cremation Service located at 142 West Washington Avenue, Washington, New Jersey.  The family will receive visitors from 1:00-3:00pm followed by a memorial service from 3:00-3:30. We invite all who knew and loved Matthew to join us in honoring his memory and sharing stories of his remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Hackettstown Foundation for Educational Excellence www.Hackettstown.org