Ann Harrington Dinkins

Ann Harrington Dinkins, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, entered into eternal rest peacefully on July 21, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Her kindness, strength, unwavering faith, and sense of humor touched the lives of all who knew her and will be remembered always.

Ann shared 50 wonderful years of marriage with the love of her life, Ernest R. Dinkins. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her son, Ernest R. "Rod" Dinkins, Jr. (Crystal); her daughters, Janet D. Vaughan (Billy) and Donna D. Zapata (Rob); her cherished grandchildren, Christopher Waters (Grace), Chassidy Dinkins, Margaret Ann Johnson, Brooklyn Dinkins, Bristol Dinkins, Shelby Johnson, and Britain Dinkins; three precious great-grandchildren; her sister, Sara Byne (Miller); her sister-in-law, Ann Harrington; and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Myron Charles Harrington and Irene Craig Harrington, and her brother, Colonel Myron C. Harrington, USMC (Ret.).

Although Ann was born in Augusta, Georgia, her family soon moved to Decatur, where she spent her childhood. She graduated from Decatur High School before continuing her education at LaGrange College and Wingate University in Wingate, North Carolina. She began her career as a physical education teacher, inspiring young people with her enthusiasm and encouragement. After moving back to Augusta, she worked at First Federal Savings & Loan until being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at the age of 32. Despite the challenges of living with multiple sclerosis, Ann faced each day with remarkable courage, grace, and determination. She found great joy in spending time with family and friends and remained active in the Irish American Society, the GaSCar Car Club, and the Shade Tree A's. Through these organizations she created countless treasured memories and formed lifelong friendships. Ann was a devoted and active member of the Our Saviour Episcopal Church, where she found strength, fellowship, and purpose.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who offered love, prayers, and support throughout Ann's journey.

Pallbearers will be Christopher Waters, Billy Vaughan, Rob Zapata, Donald Waters, Paul Ianuario, and Gerald Melchiors.

A funeral service celebrating Ann's life will be held on Monday, July 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in the chapel of Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors with The Very Rev. Al Crumpton IV officiating. Interment will follow at Westover Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Sunday from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to National Multiple Sclerosis Society: PO Box 91891, Washington, DC 20090-1891 or Autism Research Institute.

Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484. Please sign the guestbook at www.thomaspoteet.com