Former legislative counsel to the Senate Dwight James Pinion, recognized by the late Sen. Barry Goldwater (R-Ariz.) as an “exceptional public servant,” died Aug. 27 at his home in Deming, N.M., after several years of declining health. He was 93.

Pinion and his wife of 67 years, Kathryn, lived in Arlington, Va., for 26 years and in McLean, Va., for 38. The couple spent the past three years in Deming.

A Nebraska native, Pinion graduated from Grand Island Business College in 1934 and went on to receive his law degree from Southeastern University in 1937.

Starting his long career of governmental work in 1934 with the Bureau of Veterans’ Affairs, he then moved to the Securities and Exchange Commission for five years. Continuing to advance, Pinion worked in the Office of the Legislative Counsel to the Senate until 1969, after which he retired.

In addition to his governmental work, Pinion was a member of the Federal Bar Association, the D.C. Bar Association and the National Lawyers Club.

Pinion, a scoutmaster for the Boy Scouts, would practice fly casting in the Reflecting Pool at the Washington Monument with the National Capitol Casting Club. Having an affinity for the outdoors, he also enjoyed camping and was an active member of the Ski Club of Washington, D.C.

A family service was held in Deming, and memorial donations can be made to a charity of choice.

Pinion is survived by his wife, three daughters, brother and sister, three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

— Jennifer Lash