After a decade of serving sweet treats and smiles in Owensboro’s Baptisttown neighborhood, Pinky’s SnowCones and Snacks is closing its doors. Owner Sheila Crowe said today marks the business’s final day as she prepares to focus on her growing catering venture and homemade dessert line.
Crowe launched Pinky’s in 2015 on a small concrete pad across from McFarland Funeral Home. The stand later relocated to the corner of Poplar and 5th Street behind the H.L. Neblett Community Center, where it became a familiar summer fixture.
“I grew up in Baptisttown, and I just wanted to give back to the kids in the community,” Crowe said. “For 10 summers in a row, I’ve obligated my summers there. It’s bittersweet, but it’s time to do what’s best for myself.”
The stand became known for snow cones, walking tacos, and homemade sweets — a mix that reflected Crowe’s passion for creativity and connection. When Kentucky passed the Home-Based Processing law in 2018, she began offering baked goods under the Pinky’s name, later expanding to year-round curbside pickup from her home.
In 2021, Crowe left her full-time job to dedicate herself to her food businesses. This year, she launched Crowe’s Catering, which has quickly taken off thanks to partnerships with local event planners and word of mouth.
“With Pinky’s, I have more of a liability, and I can’t do everything,” she said. “Catering gives me the freedom to book when I want to book and do what I want with my days.”
Crowe said she plans to sell the Pinky’s trailer and equipment but will keep the property for her family. She hopes the buyer will keep the business in the neighborhood.
“I’d love for it to stay in the community,” she said. “That’s where my heart is.”
Crowe said the hardest part of closing has been telling longtime customers goodbye.
“One little boy started crying when I told him we were closing,” she said. “It’s hard, because I love the people and the joy it’s brought. But I’ll still be around through catering and desserts.”
Crowe plans to rebrand her homemade desserts as Pinky’s Desserts and Treats and hopes to eventually build a commercial kitchen that could also serve as a community space.
Those interested in purchasing the Pinky’s business or inquiring about catering can contact Crowe at [email protected] or 270-695-7309.
