James Hinkle

James “Jim” Dean Hinkle, aged 68, of Loves Park, Illinois, died unexpectedly at his home on May 27, 2026. 

Jim was born in Pocahontas, Arkansas, on June 21, 1957, to Jess Golden and Ruby Esther (McKinney) Hinkle. He was the second-youngest of their 12 children. 

A devoted father, Jim loved spending time with his two daughters, Jessica and Jamilyn, his greatest joys. In 2014, his world exploded with even more love when his granddaughter, Adriana, was born.

Jim’s loved ones remember his trademark wit, dry sense of humor, and funny one-liners. He loved a strong, black coffee, good music, and a lemon dessert. He will be most remembered for his gentle, caring, generous, and humble nature. Jim would give the shirt off his back and go out of his way to help anyone in need.

Jim spent most of his career working in the fastener industry. He worked for Textron for 23 years and retired in 2007.

Jim is survived by his daughters, Jessica Hinkle (Anthony J. Dillavou) of Winnebago, Illinois, and Jamilyn Hinkle (J.C. Reeves) of University City, Missouri, their mother, Lori (J.R.) Peaslee, granddaughter Adriana Dillavou, along with sisters Wilma Poyner, Thelma Hastings, Joan Buttacavoli, Ruby Martin, Kathy (Steve) Walters, and Patsy (Barry) Westholder. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Bill, Jesse, and Johnny, sisters Sue Poe and Velma Yeager, nephew Steven Martin, niece Cheryl (Martin) Tripp, father-in-law Ron Bowen, and mother-in-law Judy Bowen. 

Friends and family are invited to a visitation held at 11:00 A.M. on Monday, June 8, at Honquest Family Funeral Home with Crematory, 4311 N. Mulford Rd., Loves Park, IL 61111. The funeral service will immediately follow at noon.

Following the service, all are welcome to join the family for a luncheon and celebration of Jim's life at the Rockton American Legion, 221 W. Main St., Rockton, IL 61072.

Jim wished to be buried in Arkansas at Moark Cemetery with his parents and brothers. The family will coordinate a private burial at a later date. 

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