James D. Hinkle

SWOOPE – James Dale Hinkle, 85, passed away Friday, September 5, 2025 in his home.

James was born in Franklin, West Virginia on July 30, 1940, and was a son of the late Robert Edward and Ruth Eunice (Propts) Hinkle. He served in the U. S. Army, stationed in Germany, from 1958 to 1960. He was employed as a truck driver for Smith’s Transfer for 25 years prior to retirement. James was an honorary member of the Staunton Augusta Rescue Squad, having previously served for ten years as an active member. He was a member of Mt. Holly Masonic Lodge #544 AF & AM for 29 years, and was also a member of Shriners International for 29 years. James was also an ordained minister, having received ordination through the Lighthouse Church. He attended St. James United Methodist Church, and enjoyed fishing and bird-watching.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Jean “Bobbie” (Russell) Hinkle; and a brother, William Hinkle. He is survived by four children, Sherry Craig (husband James) of Grottoes, Curtice Hinkle (wife Christine) of Swoope, Shannon Craton (husband Roger) of Gastonia, NC, and John Elmore (wife Amy) of Swoope; two sisters, Mary Lou Simmons of Chester and Patsy Bright of Rocky Mount; two brothers, Paul “Buddy” Hinkle of Churchville and Richard Hinkle of Craigsville; seven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday in the chapel of Bear Funeral Home, officiated by Pastor Lester Kennedy. Burial will follow in Green Hill Cemetery. Active Pallbearers will be Michael Thompson, E. J. Hinkle, Lucas Knott, Tony Robertson, James Craig, and Wesley Thompson.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Monday at the funeral home, and other times at the residence.

Memorials may be directed to the Staunton Augusta Rescue Squad, PO Box 2566, Staunton, VA 24402.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.bearfuneralhome.com.