James Hinkle

James C. Hinkle, 85, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2025 after struggling with dementia for a number of years. He lived in Gore, Oklahoma for more than 20 years before being moved to Oklahoma City for his safety. He was born August 15, 1939 to Gordon T. and Judy M. Sears in Hoffman, Oklahoma.

He served in the U.S. Air Force and was very proud of his service. He told stories of the air force and taking care of ranking officers, he was an administrative assistant. He said he would slide the paperwork in to get leave for a weekend. He would fly home to Del City and leave the same weekend. He spoke about how the officers thought he did a great job. Jim was a sales man with General Electric/Hotpoint for many years and retired from their service. He also worked for Ford Motor Company (Philco) and Dick Christman Appliance Center. He said that he looked forward to going to work every day with G.E. and it was his dream job. It completed him. He was so proud of his job and the good job that he did for them. He won sales man of the year twice. He beamed with pride when he spoke of it. He collected coins for many years and had an extensive library. He collected eagles and had them all over his house. He was proud of his Native American heritage and loved flute music. He loved football and was a fierce OU Sooner fan. He frequently had watch parties with his brothers and their families. He was an avid fisherman. There was never a time that he did not have a boat. He had more rods, reels and tackle that one man could ever need. Jim was a proud man in his accomplishments and shared stories of his life with everyone that he met. He will be missed.

Jim is survived by his daughter Rena' Challis her spouse Terry Challis and her children Dylan, Christopher and Natalie as well as his great grandchild Luna. His daughter Carla Hinkle her spouse Scott Rose and her children Melanie and Odynn. Also, his three brothers Phil, Ted and Terry.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father, his grandson Jonny Challis and two brothers Tom and David.