James Jerry Hinkle

James “Jim” Hinkle, 80, of East Ridge, Tennessee, passed away Tuesday, October 29, 2024. He was born in Winchester, Tennessee, and graduated from Franklin County High School. Jim spent 38 years as a construction superintendent in the Chattanooga area after studying construction management and civil engineering at Chattanooga State. He oversaw the construction of Chattanooga Funeral Home, East Chapel, and the Brainerd post office, among many other projects. Jim worked with HouseMaster Home Inspections for 16 years before his retirement. He served in the Tennessee National Guard from 1967 – 1972. Jim had a strong faith and was proud to serve as a deacon at First Baptist Church Chattanooga.

Jim had a sparkle in his eyes and a smile that could brighten any room. Genuinely interested in others, he made everyone feel welcome and important. He had a true servant’s heart, always looking for ways to improve the lives of those around him. Jim loved to teach and educate, especially when helping others understand and navigate the financial market. He was happiest when he was with his family and was his grandchildren’s biggest fan. Known for his ‘dad jokes’, he was a wonderful ‘Mr. Fix-It’, and never found a sweet treat he could resist.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James Frank “Pete” Hinkle and Mary Maudalyne Bobo Hinkle; brother, William “Bill” Hinkle; and aunt, Addie C. “Sister” Franklin, who mothered him after his mother’s untimely death.

Survivors include his cherished wife of 55 years, Sheila Hinkle; son, Steven Hinkle (Todd); daughter, Karen Long (David); the grandchildren he adored - Megan, Jacob, and Cassidy Long; and Gayle Goltra, who is like a sister.

The family will receive friends from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday at Chattanooga Funeral Home, East Chapel, 404 South Moore Road, and from 1 to 2 p.m. Tuesday at First Baptist Church, 401 Gateway Avenue. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday in First Baptist Church’s McEwen Chapel. Jim will be entombed at Lomenick Mausoleum in East Ridge.

Memorial contributions can be made in Jim’s memory to Chattanooga Bach Choir, First Baptist Church Chattanooga, or CHI Memorial Foundation’s Invest in the Best campaign, particularly the interventional pulmonology program.

Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaEastChapel.com.