Anthony W. Hinkler

Anthony "Tony" Hinkler, a cherished husband, father, uncle, and friend, died tragically on July 19, 2025, just one day shy of his 87th birthday, in Greenville, South Carolina. Born on July 20, 1938, in New York, NY, to the late Harry and Teresa Graziano Hinkler, Tony's life was marked by devotion to his family, service to his community and country, and zeal for life's simple pleasures.

Eager to serve his country like his childhood WWII heroes, Tony enlisted with the United States Marine Corps at the age of 17. Following active duty, Tony continued to serve as a Marine reservist and dedicated his career to the New York Police Department, from which he retired after many years of distinguished service. In his retirement, Tony continued to serve his community as a volunteer for court services and community safety organizations. A firm believer that purpose was a key to longevity, Tony continued working as an aide to disabled children in the Greenville County Schools until COVID-19 closures forced him into full retirement.

Married to his loving wife, Anne, for nearly 46 years, Tony was a beacon of love, stability and unwavering loyalty. Together, they raised a beautiful family, including their daughter, Amy Hinkler, and his son, Gerard, his daughter Christine, and his son Andrew Stone. Tony was also a doting uncle to his niece, Denise McClain-Angrisano, and he cherished the bonds he shared with each family member. For them, Tony was a paragon of fatherhood: he was their little league coach, class dad, chauffeur, frequent field trip chaperone, sports reel editor, the original dance dad, and simply, very best friend. Rarely was he seen without a video camera, capturing his family’s biggest moments. He was the ultimate caretaker and his family’s most ardent supporter through his very last day.

Tony's zest for life was evident in his daily routines and hobbies. He was known in his and surrounding neighborhoods for his daily walks, carrying dog treats for his canine friends, much to their delight. For his human friends, he served genuine smiles, kind words, and easy laughter. A health enthusiast, Tony enjoyed staying active until his very last breath, beginning each morning with 40 push-ups – once a Marine, always a Marine! His artistic talent was a source of joy and quiet pride, as was his love for reading, gardening, sports and other creative endeavors, which kept his mind sharp and his conversations lively. Tony’s imagination was limitless, and his spark never dulled.

Tony loved the Brooklyn Dodgers (long after they decamped for Los Angeles), big band music, country westerns, and slapstick comedy. He loved attending sporting events with his daughter, particularly Greenville Drive and New York Mets games, and he so looked forward to their family visits that he maintained a countdown until their next reunion. A true foodie and cocktail connoisseur, Tony never missed an opportunity to indulge in Jewish deli and Italian comforts. A bowl of pickled herring or warm PEI mussels would melt his troubles away, and a Manhattan, he believed, kept the doctor away. His love for food was matched only by his love for people; he was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. His kindness and generosity knew no bounds, and he left an indelible mark on the hearts of those he encountered.

After surviving of one of the most dangerous jobs in America and cancer, Tony was determined to live well into his 100s, which seemed more likely with each day of continued good health and vitality. Tragically, Tony’s dream of becoming a centenarian was shattered when he was killed by a motorist on Roper Mountain Road as he finished his morning walk on Saturday, July 19. In a brief recording captured just minutes before he was struck, Tony can be heard laughing as he left a friend and headed home. He exuded joy in every moment, including his last.

Tony's legacy is one of kindness, bravery, selflessness and love. He was in a league of his own and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his undying spirit will continue to inspire and buoy his loved ones.

As we bid farewell to Anthony "Tony" Hinkler, we celebrate a life well-lived and a man most loved. His memory will be cherished and kept alive through the stories shared by friends and family, and the countless lives he touched with his pure and generous heart.