Lois was born in Colchester, Vermont to Paul and Helen Fontaine and passed away at the age of 79 in Turlock.  She was raised all over the country as a “military brat”. Lois attended high school in Indiana and Canterbury England graduating from London Central High School in Bushey Park, England in 1953. 

She received her Associate of Arts degree from Modesto Junior College in 1955, her Bachelor’s degree from California State University, Stanislaus in 1983 and finally her Master’s degree in social work from San Jose State University in 1993. 

On June 19, 1955 she married Dale Pinkney and together they had three children and shared 59 years of marriage.  Lois and Dale enjoyed being world travelers; together they visited the United Kingdom, Scandinavian countries, Russia, China, South America, Australia and many other countries.  In addition to traveling, she was an outdoor enthusiast who enjoyed hiking, camping and reading. 

Lois was very involved in the community and church.  She served as a member of the Stanislaus County Civil Grand Jury, as ombudsman for Stanislaus County and was a salvation army bell ringer.  She was the chair of the board of trustees at First United Methodist Church, a supporter of Castle Air Museum Foundation, Townsend Opera Players, Turlock Arts Commission, Kiwanis Club of Turlock, Friends of The Library and Turlock Historical Museum.

She is survived by her husband Dale Pinkney; children Stephen (Patti) Pinkney, Martin (Terri) Pinkney and Carla (Paul) Pinkney-Smith; sister Sandra Fontaine; grandchildren Daniel, Lisa, Tyler, Myles, Liam and Aidan; great grandchildren Lydia, Ethan and Madelyn.

Memorial contributions can be made in her memory to First United Methodist Church 1660 Arbor Way Turlock, CA 95382 or to any of the many organizations she supported.

Memorial service will be held at Turlock First United Methodist Church on Thursday, December 11, 2014 at 11:00 a.m.

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