Smith H. Hinkle

Smith Harvey Hinkle, 83, of Clyde, Ohio, died on April 12, 2026 of natural causes. He was born in Red Jacket, West Virginia to George and Angeline (Justice) Hinkle. After graduating from Matewan High School, he joined the U.S. Airforce where he rose to the rank of Master Sergeant before retiring after 20 years of service. Smith then worked for the Water Treatment Plant in Clyde, Ohio until his retirement. Smith was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

He enjoyed his volunteer work with the church and spending time with his family. He also enjoyed gardening and quilting.

He is survived by his brother, George (Janet) Hinkle; sisters, Nellie Blankenship, Opal New, Lois (Steve) DiMaria, Roberta (Butch) Peless; brother-in-law, John (Vernie) Chafin; children, William (Sue) Hinkle of Florence, KY, Millie Burr of Clyde, OH and Joseph Hinkle of Clyde, OH; grandchildren, Talisman Hinkle-Burr, Sarah Hinkle, Ava Burr and David Burr, III; along with many nieces and nephews who all loved him dearly.

Smith was preceded in death by his parents, George and Angeline Hinkle; his wife June (Chafin) Hinkle; son, George Stewart Hinkle; brother, Jacob Hinkle; sisters, Millie Blankenship, Rose Stancil and Angie Harp; son-in-law, David Burr II and brothers-in-law, Rush Blankenship, Bill New, Frank Blankenship, George (Ellen) Chafin, William Chafin and Larry (Susie) Chafin; and sister-in-law, Libby (Benny) Gue.

Visitation will be 11am-1pm on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at the Auxter-Recker Funeral Home, 218 S. Main St., Clyde, OH followed by a funeral service at 1pm at the funeral home. Brother Brant Smith will conduct the service. Burial will follow at McPherson Cemetery in Clyde, OH where military graveside services will be conducted. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Heartland Hospice, 907 West State St., Fremont, OH 43420.

We invite you to leave your memories and upload photos to Smith’s memorial page to celebrate a life beautifully lived.