Gerald Wayne Dinkins

Gerald Wayne Dinkins of Annapolis, MO, entered Heaven on Friday, December 27, 2024, at the age of 83 years, 6 months, and 27 days. He was born May 31, 1941, in Ironton, MO, to the late Albert Ray and Mary Louise (Slusher) Dinkins. On August 17, 1968, Gerald was united in marriage to Sheryl Arlene Palmer who preceded him in rest on December 20, 2009. To this union three children were born, Christina Dougherty and husband Chad of Cape Girardeau, MO, Dustin Dinkins and wife Kaylie of Annapolis, MO, and Benjamin Dinkins and wife Brandy of Annapolis, MO, all of whom survive. After Sheryl’s passing, Gerald found a new friend and companion in Lynn Henry Place, and on February 14, 2016, Gerald was united in marriage to Lynn who survives. Also surviving are nine grandchildren, Keagan, Kolton, Kasen, Drenin, Enzley, Drazic, Riley, Delaney, and Makenna, two bonus granddaughters, Ella and Addison; step-children, Richard Henry Place of Wappapello, MO and John Ethan Place of Lake St. Louis, MO, two sisters, Uyvonne Huddleston and husband Tom of Doe Run, MO, and Donna West and husband Garry of Fredericktown, MO, a sister-in-law Diane Dinkins of Ironton, MO, and many more loving nieces, nephews, family members, past students, and friends. Gerald is preceded in rest by his parents Albert Ray and Mary Louise Dinkins, his first wife and mother to his children, Sheryl Arlene Dinkins, two brothers Clyde Dinkins and wife Virginia (Pal), and Donald Dinkins, and a sister Doris Dinkins as a small child. After graduating high school, he moved to St. Louis where he was employed as an iron worker working 300 feet in the air and also worked for Browning Arms Company. He served his country in the United States Army Reserve and eventually found his favorite job- connecting with people. He entered college, became a teacher and school became a second home. For more than 30 years, Gerald was an educator, coach, and counselor in the public school system. He spent 22 of those years with the Lesterville School district and finished his career at South Iron. He was a school counselor, taught history, psychology, and social studies. In addition, he coached basketball and tennis, including helping guide the 1977 Lesterville Bearcats all the way to the State Championship. His love for basketball never ceased and he was one of the South Iron Panthers’ biggest fans. He was also active with other school and community programs. He was a member of the Happy Zion General Baptist Church, a Sunday School teacher and a trustee for his church. He was a Senior BETA sponsor for many years, an EMT and member of the Annapolis Ambulance Board, and a member of the Iron County Health Board. He was the owner of Dinkins Auto Sales for 42 years. When Gerald wasn’t working or staying busy with his passions and hobbies, he could be found enjoying “God’s creation” while adding even more beauty through his landscaping creations on “the land.” Gerald loved his family, his church, and his community. He always had time for a friend in need and was always ready to listen if you needed guidance. His smile, kindness, love, devotion, work ethic, and character will be missed by his family, but will never be forgotten. Gerald Wayne Dinkins will be missed by all who were blessed to know and love him. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 4, 2025, from the Happy Zion General Baptist Church in Annapolis, MO, beginning at 11:00 am. A Visitation for friends and family to gather together will be held on Friday, January 3, 2025, beginning at 4:00 pm and lasting until 8:00 pm from the Cole Family Funeral Home in Ironton, MO. Interment will follow the services in the Annapolis Cemetery. Rev. Mike Harrison and Rev. Mike Harrison, Jr. will be officiating the services. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Happy Zion General Baptist Church Youth Program. Online condolences may be made at www.colefamilyfuneralhomes.com

Gerald Wayne Dinkins

May 31, 1941 - December 27, 2024