Walter Ray Hinton

Walter Ray “Ray” Hinton, Sr., age 99, passed peacefully into the arms of the Lord on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at Emory Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia, following a sudden coronary arrest at 12:06 p.m. Born on October 15, 1926, Ray, as he was known to family and friends, lived a long, full life, and his family takes comfort in knowing his passing was peaceful and without suffering.

Ray lived through nearly a century of American history and embodied its best qualities—steadfast work, ingenuity, patriotism, humor, and a heart that was always turned toward helping others. He proudly served his country for several years in the United States Navy, an experience that shaped the discipline and sense of service he carried throughout his life.

Ray spent the bulk of his career with General Electric as a field service engineer, specializing in large industrial turbines. His work often carried him across the country, where he solved complex mechanical challenges with calm precision and a deep sense of responsibility. He was respected by colleagues and customers alike for his expertise and steady demeanor.

In his leisure time, Ray enjoyed the simple joys of community and conversation. He was a familiar and welcome presence at Miller’s Mill Store in McDonough, a place where he found friendship, routine, and the comfort of familiar faces. Beyond his personal interests, Ray had a heart for service. He founded “The Measley Dollar,” a grassroots effort inviting people to give just one dollar to help provide coats and bicycles for Appalachian children in need. His belief that even the smallest gift could change a child’s life became a legacy of compassion that touched countless families.

Ray was devoted to his wife, Mary Joan Free Hinton, lovingly known as Joan, with whom he shared 75 years of steadfast marriage. Their life together was built on faith, loyalty, humor, and the quiet strength of two people who stood beside one another through every season of life. Joan survives him and continues to carry forward the love they built.

He was the loving father of six children:

• Laura Hinton Reynolds (and her late husband, Rick Reynolds)

• Grandchildren: Leah Shannon Reynolds Avigdori, Richard Jackson Reynolds

• Walter Ray Hinton, Jr. (deceased), and Margaret Dyer

• Grandchildren: Anna Balboni, Margaret “Meg” Hinton

• Susana Hinton Lambert (and her husband, Charles M. Lambert)

• Grandchildren: Charles McDaniel Lambert, Jr., Sean Walter Lambert, Jacob Neil Lambert

• Fran Hinton Stafford (and her late husband, Captain Kenneth Stafford, USNA (Retired))

• Grandchild: Grayson Terrett Compton (deceased)

• Philip Rodriguez Hinton (and his spouse, Kris Staton)

• Grandchildren: Dalton Ray Hinton, Morgan Alyn Hinton

• Ella Cassandra “Cassie” Hinton Elder

• Grandchildren: Mary Adelaide Elder, Elliott Bowen Elder

He is also survived by his precious sister, Joanne Gunner, and his loving brothers, Billy Hinton and Bob Hinton, as well as numerous great-grandchildren and even great-great-grandchildren, whose lives continue the family legacy. Ray will be remembered for his good humor, his storytelling, and his ability to fix nearly anything.

Ray was also widely known for his love of organic gardening, a passion he tended with the same quiet care and patience he gave to those around him. His tomatoes, okra, and greens were legendary among those who knew him, and he shared his harvest generously. In his later years, he took great joy in working in the community garden in Senoia, Georgia, where he cultivated both produce and friendships. Gardening was not just a hobby for Ray—it was a way of life, a daily act of nurturing and giving that reflected his steadfast spirit.

A funeral and memorial service will be held at Union Methodist Church,

4600 GA-138, Stockbridge, GA 30281,

on Friday, November 28, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.

The family will gather at 10:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to continue Ray’s legacy through The Measley Dollar Project, benefitting children in the Appalachian region.

Ray’s life was long, his love was steady, and his example endures in the hearts of all who knew him.