Ernest Ray Hinson

Ernest Ray Hinson, 89, of Mint Hill, NC, passed away peacefully with family at his side on Sunday, November 13, 2011, at Presbyterian Hospital in Charlotte, NC. He was born on March 27, 1922, a son of Elijah and Carrie Hinson of Brief, NC.

Ernest grew up, one of ten children, on the family’s farm in Union County. During World War II, he served in the US Army Infantry where his leadership ability became apparent. He fought in the difficult campaigns of North Africa, Sicily and Italy. By the end of the war, Ernest was a decorated battlefield commissioned Lieutenant. Soon after the war, Ernest returned home, resumed his life, and married his longtime sweetheart, Maxine Lumsden, in 1946.

During his long career, Ernest was for the most part self-employed in various businesses and was the Harley-Davidson Motorcycle dealer for the greater Charlotte area upon his retirement.

Faith, church and family were always central in his life. Over the years, Ernest had served as a Deacon and in many other leadership roles through the churches he attended.

It is difficult to say what might have been his favorite hobby. Ernest enjoyed and experienced many different ones, such as riding and showing horses. He was a Private Pilot. He loved the outdoors and in retirement, was a passionate hunter and fisherman.

Ernest is survived by his wife, Maxine. He is also survived by his daughter, Karen Hinson; sons, Gary Hinson and his wife, Peggy, and Donald Hinson and his wife, Sharon; grandchildren, Chase Hinson and Hayley Hinson; sisters, Sarah Clontz and her husband, Bayne, and Rachel Thomas and her husband, Edd; and brother, N.B. Hinson and his wife, Barbara.

His family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00pm Saturday, November 19, at Wilson Grove Baptist Church, 6624 Wilgrove-Mint Hill Rd in Mint Hill, NC, with a funeral service to follow at 2:00pm at the church. Interment will follow at Sunset Memory Gardens.

The Hinson family wishes to express its gratitude to all friends and family during this time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wilson Grove Baptist Church – Loaves and Fishes Pantry.

Condolences may be offered at www.mcewenminthillchapel.com.

Arrangements under the direction of McEwen Funeral Service - Mint Hill Chapel, Mint Hill, NC.