Chester Lee Hinkle Jr.

Chester Lee Hinkle Jr., age 77, entered his heavenly home on January 21, 2026, in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He was born on June 5, 1948, in Fort Smith, a cherished son of Dorothy Ann (Cole) Hinkle and Chester L. Hinkle Sr.

Chester joined the St. James Missionary Baptist Church at a young age and on September 24, 2023, he rededicated his life back to Christ. 

During his senior year of high school, Chester was drafted to serve his country in the United States Army and was stationed in Korea. Demonstrating determination and perseverance, he later earned his G.E.D. in 2016. On August 29, 1970, Chester was united in marriage to the love of his life, Shirley Jean Taylor, with whom he shared many devoted years.
Chester spent his working years employed with the Coca-Cola Bottling Company, where he served as a machinist in maintenance. Known for his strong work ethic and skill, he took pride in his craft and dedication to his career. In his leisure time, Chester enjoyed playing chess and dominoes and watching sports. Above all, his greatest passion was his family. He will be remembered as a loving and dependable man who was always there for anyone in need.

Chester is survived by his daughter, Michelle D. Hinkle-Jordan; one grandchild, Keevon A. Ingram; and two cherished great-grandchildren, Mila and Nova Ingram. He also leaves behind his siblings, Connie (Joseph) Alexander of Gallatin, Tennessee; Alice Shell, Wanda (Gregory) Lee, Phyllis Williams, and Micheal (Lisa) Hinkle, all of Fort Smith, Arkansas; and Lesia (Isaiah) Edmondson of Sherwood, Arkansas, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Chester Sr. and Dorothy Hinkle, his beloved wife, Shirley Jean Hinkle; and his brother, Reverend Gary (Virginia) Hinkle.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Lewis Funeral Chapel in Fort Smith. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 6, 2026 at St. James Baptist Church, with a committal service to follow at 1:00 p.m. at the Fort Smith National Cemetery. Reverend Dee Smith will officiate. Services are entrusted to Lewis Funeral Chapel.

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