William "Bill" Hinkley

William Cushing Hinkley, affectionately known as Bill and "Hink," was born on April 25, 1954, in Lansing, Michigan, and departed this world on January 7, 2026, in Toledo, Ohio. He leaves behind a legacy of love, humor, and cherished memories that will resonate in the hearts of his family and friends for years to come.

Bill was a proud graduate of Cadillac Senior High School in 1972, followed by his educational pursuits at Michigan State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in 1987, and later, his Masters of Science from Emory University in 1991. He enjoyed a fulfilling career after joining Glaxo Smith Kline in Durham, North Carolina, where he worked diligently in research and development, taking pride in contributing to advancements in the field.

Known for his dry wit and lovable grouch persona, Bill had a great sense of humor that endeared him to many. He was a man of many interests, having been a professional skier before embarking on his educational journey. Those who knew him would remember him fondly as an exceptional gardener and a marvelous cook, famed among friends for his craft of brewing famous home brew beer. His hobbies also included golfing, which brought him joy and camaraderie.

Bill was blessed with a loving and supportive family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Kathryn Schlitz Hinkley, and his daughter, Krystal Cara Hinkley. He shared a special bond with his step-sons, Colin Daniel Langford and Christopher Louis Langford, and his beloved daughter-in-law, Dr. Cheryl Xue Dong. Bill took immense pride in his grandson, Alexander Woden Langford, cherishing the time spent with him. His sister, Hilary Hinkley Blalock, and her husband, Chad Blalock, provided him with unwavering support, alongside his brothers, James Hinkley and Robert "Bob" Harrison Hinkley II. He is also survived by his niece, Elizabeth "Liz" Ann Hinkley, and nephew, Robert (Rob) Harrison Hinkley III.

Bill's memory will forever be imprinted by the joyous adventures enjoyed with his family, particularly the cherished beach vacations with is family and the hours spent with his beloved grandson and daughter. They built rockets and dreamt of trains together — moments that fostered laughter and love, creating a tapestry of warm memories. At the Grove, he was adored as a lovable grumpy grouch, a personality that brought a unique charm to every gathering.

The world has lost a remarkable soul, and though he is deeply missed, the impact William Cushing Hinkley made on those around him will be felt for generations to come. He is preceded in death by his father, Robert Harrison Hinkley, Sr., and his mother, Jayne Laurent Hinkley. Bill lived a life full of achievements, and above all, he was proud of his beautiful gardens and even prouder of his beloved family. As we remember Bill, let us hold dear the memories of his love, laughter, and the indelible mark he left on our lives.