Lawrence A. (Larry) Pinkelton

LAWRENCE ADAM PINKELTON

Lawrence Adam Pinkelton's remarkable journey began in Cincinnati, Ohio, on May 10, 1959. Born to the late Mary Elizabeth Pinkelton and late Nathaniel “Buss” McAdoo.

Larry's roots were firmly planted in College Hill, where he spent his childhood years. It was during his early years, amidst the vibrant tapestry of life, that Larry discovered his two greatest loves - the thrill of a sleek car and the allure of James Bond movies. You could always catch Larry driving around town and school in his most prized possession, a 1963 Buick Riveria affectionately known as “The Riv.” It was a smooth ride with a 455 engine that Larry had customized to meet his personal taste. Larry's Riviera was more than just a car, it was a declaration of his character—unique and tailored to perfection. It became a magnet for challengers on the road, and without fail, Larry emerged victorious in every race! 

The year 1977 marked a significant milestone as Larry donned the graduation gown of Aiken High School. During those formative years, he found contentment in the aisles of the local Thriftway food store in North College Hill. Guided by his mother's unwavering encouragement to reach for the stars, Larry embarked on a journey of higher education. The University of Cincinnati became his second home, and in 1982, he emerged with a degree in Finance and Economics - a testament to his relentless pursuit of knowledge. 

During his university years, Larry's life underwent a profound transformation when he was initiated into Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Alpha Alpha Chapter, on May 23, 1981. Larry intertwined himself in the Fraternity and was loved by all. Holding the pivotal position of number 5 on the line aptly named “Ten to the End,” this moment became a defining chapter in his life's story and was one of his proudest moments. This line was infamous because they started out with ten and crossed together as ten. Larry's line name was “Strictly Straight Dog” due to his nature of being strictly straight on everything he dealt with in life. Throughout his life journey, Larry always maintained an unwavering and resolute commitment to his principles. Alpha enabled Larry to establish manyBrotherly relationships. We would be remiss to name them all; however, his lifelong friend and brother encouraged him to pledge the fraternity. 

Larry's post-college career led him to Fifth Third Bank as a branch manager, eventually expanding his financial prowess to other institutions. He pursued further education, obtaining an MBA from Xavier University in 1993. In 1995, Larry embarked on entrepreneurship, starting his own ice cream shop. This later evolved into a new position with Kraft Foods in Minnesota; but his heart was still set on Chicago, and through his career with Kraft Foods, he was able to achieve his dream of relocating to Chicago. Larry's path later led him to public universities in the realm of Finance; first at the University of Illinois at Chicago as its Finance Director over budget and student services. He later went on to work at Chicago State University and Northern Illinois University.

In 2011, while working at Chicago State University, he met a young lady that totally captured his heart. He asked her out and their relationship blossomed into a beautiful romance. On May 23, 2015, Larry united in marriage with her, and she became his wife, Mrs. Tanya Pinkelton. She was truly the love of his life and soulmate.

In 2018, a professional opportunity allowed Larry to return to Ohio. Larry was so thrilled to come back home to be closer to his family, friends, and fraternity brothers. In 2019, Larry joined Easterseals as a Chief Financial Officer. 

On May 16, 2020, Larry welcomed his most precious creation, Lucas Nathaniel Pinkelton, into the world. Lucas became the center of Larry's universe, a source of boundless joy and love. Larry reveled in fatherhood, cherishing moments at the park, cozy naptime cuddles, and countless selfies with his beloved son. 

In 2022, Larry embarked on a new chapter, serving as the Chief Financial Officer at SORTA Metro, where he poured his heart and soul into his work until his passing. 

Larry leaves to cherish his memory:  his loving wife, (La)Tanya Pinkelton; beloved son, Lucas Pinkelton; goddaughter, Olivia Moragne-Scott, daughter of Brian Moragne; godson, Michael Battle, son of Michael and Teressa Glass; brothers, David Pinkelton & Michael McAdoo; sisters, Sheila McAdoo & Kim McAdoo; mother-in-law, Kimberly Farmer-Love; sister-in-law, LaToya Burton; brother-in-law; Johnson Love III; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, friends and family members. Larry was preceded in death by his brother, Raphael McAdoo; grandmother, Gertrude Cartmell; mother, Mary Elizabeth Pinkelton; and father, Nathaniel McAdoo

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