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Mary Lea Nickens Pinner

September 17, 1936 ~ October 26, 2025

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Mary Lea Nickens Pinner, 89, passed away peacefully in the early morning on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at E.T. York Hospice Care Center in Gainesville, Florida. Born on September 17, 1936, in Galvez, Louisiana to Lee and Mary Nickens, Mary lived a life rooted in faith, integrity, and grace. Over the past few years, she resided in Destin, Atlanta, and Gainesville, where she spent her time surrounded by much love from her family and friends.

Mary’s passion for cosmetology led her to Tampa, Florida in 1956, and ultimately to Gainesville, where she opened her own salon, Chez Marie. Through her work, she built deep relationships within the Gainesville community, connecting people and fostering friendships. She was a devoted supporter of the Boys’ Club, Gainesville High School sports, and other youth programs.

Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. Mary was a faithful, active member of First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, serving as a children’s Sunday school teacher and on the altar guild team. She dedicated 30 years of service to The Home Depot in Destin and Atlanta, where she spent time with her son Dieter and granddaughter Sidney, and daughter Heather. Her kindness, strong work ethic, and love for the Lord touched countless co-workers and customers.

Mary was preceded in death by her former husband, William “Bill” Thomas Pinner; her parents, Lee and Mary Nickens; and brothers Cliff and Clark Nickens. She is survived by her son, Dieter Thomas Pinner; daughter, Mary Heather Pinner; step daughter, Jane Pinner Kirby; step son Bradley Duke Pinner; granddaughter, Sidney Mason Pinner; sisters Loretta W., Maggie N., Marjory N., Marvis N., Elaine R., Patsy D.; brothers Tommy N. and Richard N.; brother-in-law Tony R.; and many cherished nieces and nephews.

Mary will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to Christ and her commitment to sharing His love with others. Her legacy of faith, honesty, and grace will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

“Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be.” – John 12:26

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” – Psalm 46:1

In honoring our mom’s wishes, a service will not be planned.

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  3. Mary I look at your picture every day. Was so glad Jesus gave me the opportunity to get to know you and I grew to love you immensely. I know I’ll get to be with you again in Heaven. Until then you’ll always be in my heart and mind

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  4. Mary was certainly a bright light in God’s earthly kingdom , always exhibiting joy and love. The kingdom of heaven glows brighter with her presence! My love and prayers to her family.

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  5. Mary always had a smile on her face. My husband would frequent Home Depot in Destin, Florida and Mary always greeted him with a hug and a smile. Mary would even offer to pray for him if he had any aches or pains. I used to feed her cats when she would go out of town. Mary and I always had the best conversations. She will be missed. Blessings, love and peace to her family and friends during this time of loss.

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  6. Hi mom. I miss you so, so much. You have been my rock, my guiding light and my best friend. Thank you for your unconditional love and your tough love and all your many prayers. I have so much respect for you and the life you lived through Christ. You are a true follower of Jesus. Thank you for all the lessons, especially the tough ones, you taught me. I will do my best to carry on everything you tried to teach me. You are an amazing follower of Jesus, mother, grandmother and friend. I love you so, so much. I am so proud to be your son. I thank God everyday for blessing me with an amazing mother and friend. You are always with me. I love you mom.

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  7. Mary was the highlight of my day at Home Depot! We could talk about our love for the Lord and it would always be an uplifting moment! She was the best! I look forward to seeing her again!

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  8. Mary Lea, you were more than a sister-in-law to me—you were a steady source of kindness, laughter, and honesty in our family. Thank you for the love you showed all of us and for the way you always made people feel welcomed and understood. I’ll miss your voice, your humor, and the light you brought into every room. Rest peacefully. We’ll carry your memory with us always.”
    Tony

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