Thomas Lawson Hinton

He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Peggy Hinton; his daughters Leslie Ross (Tom) and Carrie Griffin (Julie); his son John Hinton (Marian); five grandchildren Barrett and Blake Griffin (Brittany), Ashley and Michael Ross, and Drew Hinton; his first wife, Carolyn (Rogers) Hinton; as well as many nieces and nephews and a sister-in-law, Doris Hinton (wife of his brother Clyde).

He was preceded in death by his father, Clyde Jasper Hinton; his mother, Opal Hattie Bazar; his sisters Ovelia McCullough, Lois Moore, Betty Jean Zernick, Marylee Tardy, and Joyce Ann Whitehurst; and his brother Clyde.

Buddy was a fighter. At 83-years-old, he had endured a 4-year battle with Alzheimer’s after surviving a major heart attack and defeating Guillain Barre several years earlier. During these tough times, he won the hearts of so many of his nurses and caretakers.

“Buddy,” was a nickname given to him by his brother Clyde. It ended up being the perfect name for him, as he truly was a buddy to everyone. He loved talking to people and was an inspiration, motivator, and mentor to everyone he met. He was the kind of person who would do anything in his power to help those who needed a hand.

Growing up in Mesquite, he was the valedictorian at Mesquite High School, Class of 1955. He played football and basketball and even played collegiate ball at Henderson County Community College and East Texas State University. After finishing school, he served in the Coast Guard for two years, stationed in Port Arthur, TX. After being discharged, he served as a youth minister at First Baptist, Mesquite and took many youth groups to Glorieta Baptist Encampment.

Buddy was an educator for 35 years, working as a math teacher at Wilkinson Middle School, assistant principal for Vanston Middle School, and an Administrator for Technical Services.

Throughout his lifetime, Buddy served faithfully at his church, Mimosa Lane Baptist Church. He was a deacon, Sunday school teacher, choir member, a member of several committees, and loved coaching the men’s and women’s church league softball teams, often serving as a mentor to many young men.

Though he touched many people in many ways, perhaps the biggest impact he made was on those who affectionately called him Pal-Pa. He absolutely loved his grandchildren. In his eyes, they could do no wrong.

Buddy loved traveling and always went snow skiing every spring break and to Panama City Beach in the summer. He and Peggy traveled to several states together, making some very special memories. They loved keeping their grandkids and attending their various activities.

Buddy has gone on to his eternal home but leaves a legacy of love, friendship, and a remarkable example of a Godly man. We love you and will see you later!