John "Mike" Michael Jinks

John Michael Jinks aka “Mike,” a Connersville native, died peacefully Sunday, July 28, 2024, at his residence with his children by his side. He was 69. Mike was born on August 28, 1954, to parents Donald L. Jinks and Naomi Cornett (Fowler), who both preceded Mike in death. Mike was a graduate of Connersville High School in 1972, the year the Spartans won the state title. He loved sports, both playing and coaching. Mike opened and operated “The Bump Shop” where he painted cars for over a decade. He also owned and operated a local business for buying, selling, and trading sports memorabilia that was in downtown Connersville called Baseball Cards & Stuff. Mike was employed by Connersville Utilities for twenty years prior to his retirement. Mike enjoyed all types of music and played the drums in his younger years. Some of his favorite artists were Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix and the Allman Brothers just to name a few. He was a big sports fan and enjoyed cheering on his favorite teams which included the Reds, Colts, and Pacers whether in person or from the comfort of his home. Most of all, Mike adored his children. Every moment he could spend with them was precious. Annually, Mike would travel to California to spend time with family and be reunited with his children and grandchildren. His spirit of compassion will be irreplaceable. Mike is survived by his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Cara (Mark) Hassey of Highland, Utah and Samuel (Allison) Jinks, Esq. of Tustin, California. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Alex (Megan) Shillingford, Sam Shillingford, Isabel (Andrew) Shingleton, Jake Hassey, and Hannah Jinks. His great-grandchildren include Sophie and Benjamin Shillingford and Jude, Avett and Koen Shingleton. A funeral service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, August 3, 2024, at Showalter Blackwell Long, Myers Chapel in Connersville, Indiana. Burial will follow in Lick Creek Cemetery. Friends may visit the funeral home at 1:00 p.m., before the service. For more information or to share memories and condolences with the family, please visit www.ShowalterBlackwellLong.com.