A memorial service will be held at 11 am Tuesday, October 4, 2022, in the chapel of Edo Miller and Sons Funeral Home with the Reverend Tommy Whaley officiating.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Vera Aline Kitchens; his father, George William Dinkins; 3 brothers, Jimmy Dinkins, Larry Dinkins, and Glen Dinkins. 2 brothers-in-law, Don Crowe, and John Henry McCollough.
He was survived by his wife of nearly 52 blessed years, Ruth Ann Dinkins; 5 children, Michael Stevens, Russell (Sebrina) Dinkins, Sharon (Darrin) Baxley, Van (Regina) Dinkins, and Vera (Bo) Logue; 25 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; 2 sisters, Judy Crowe, and Jessie Dean McCollough; and several nieces and nephews.
Born September 3, 1952, in Claxton, Georgia. He was raised in Reidsville as a young boy before moving with his family to Darien in the late 1960’s. As a young man, he moved to Miami, Florida for work. It is there he met Ruth, the love of his life, in the order line of Royal Castle. The two fell fast in love and were married only months later on May 22, 1971, at Ruth’s childhood home. They remained in Florida for 3 years before returning to Darien in 1974, where he resided until his death.
Van was a jack of all trades. He dabbled in everything from mechanics, electrical, construction, and welding work to commercial fishing. He was captain of the Jackie Ann shrimp boat for many years before accepting a position at the City of Darien. He retired, after an illness, as the Public Work’s Superintendent with nearly 30 years of faithful service. In addition, he operated a successful side business with his boys, Dink & Sons Fence Company.
He could always be found tinkering on an old boat or truck, building something, helping someone, or riding around town at 15 m.p.h. He always had a smile on his face and a joke on his lips for all he met. After his illness left him physically sidelined, he rendered his services as “Supervisor Van” free of charge. His great sense of humor never left him, and his smile only grew wider.
He enjoyed many interests. He liked being on the water and all types of fishing, hosting low country boils, singing and playing his guitar. He loved spending time with his family and going to church. More than all, he loved the Lord and remained assured of His goodness all the days of his life.
Van will be remembered for his hard work, his big smile, his kindred spirit, & for his incredible testimony of faith in midst of an on-going storm.
The family will receive friends October 4, 2022, after the funeral hour at the reception immediately following the memorial.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.edomillerandsons.com for the Dinkins family.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.9.6