TOANO — Richard Errol Hinkle, age 83, passed away peacefully at home on March 18, 2025, surrounded by his family in Toano, VA.
Richard was born on December 15, 1941, in Barry, Texas, the youngest of nine born to James William Hinkle and Edwina Dozier Hinkle. Richard attended school in Blooming Grove, TX.
One day as a teenager while working in the fields, he saw a plane fly overhead and decided then and there that he would see the world. He joined the Navy after graduating and began a life fulfilling that dream.
His sister Diane introduced him to the love of his life, Ella Olson, while he was home on leave from the Navy. They secretly eloped together on January 11, 1963, and he asked his mother to take care of her because she was his wife as he drove out of the driveway to return to the Navy.
Richard later went to the University of Houston, getting a degree in microbiology. Richard, his wife, and their two daughters, Anne and Greta, spent their lives continuing to live out his dream of seeing the world, working and living in different locations in the U.S. and overseas, including the Philippines, Thailand, Turkey, and China, and visiting many, many more. Richard spent time on every continent but Antarctica, and after retiring, he and his wife bought an RV and visited every state in the contiguous U.S.
Richard was a true patriot, choosing to serve his country loyally and valiantly for his entire career. His adventurous life was fodder for his gift of storytelling. He had a mischievous sense of humor, gently goading and teasing those he loved. He had a gentle touch and a kind soul. He was loved by all who met him.
Richard is survived by his wife of 62 years, Ella; his daughters Anne and Greta (Salim); his grandchildren Zakaria, William Ilyas, and Aisha Norah; his sisters Carolyn and Diane; his brother Hollis; and a multitude of nieces and nephews, including his wife’s niece Deborah, who was his beloved caretaker as his health declined.
He is preceded in death by his parents James William and Edwyna; his brothers, Edwyn, Benny, Duane, and Darrel, and sister Avis.
