William Zane Hinkle, Jr., age 78, of French Creek, WV, died Wednesday, February 1, 2023, at his home.

He was born December 29, 1944, in French Creek, a son of the late William Zane and Hildrene Jennis Douglas Hinkle.

He is survived by his wife, Betty Jane Rollins Hinkle; one son, Roderick Wayne Hinkle and wife Barbara of Buckhannon; one step son, Mark Allen Smallwood of Terra Alta, WV; one daughter, Debra Kay Hinkle of French Creek; three grandchildren, Broderick James Hinkle and companion Alexandria Herron of Buckhannon, Ashley Nichole Fulton of Buckhannon and Sawyer Smallwood and companion Sherry Butcher of Buckhannon; twelve great-grandchildren; one brother, David Ray Hinkle and wife Rhonda of French Creek; two nephews, Charles Brent Heater and wife Joyce of Grafton, OH and Michael Hinkle of Buckhannon; one niece, Jodi Hinkle of French Creek; one uncle, Jack Douglas of Middleton, DE; one cousin, Pamela Wilhelm and husband George of Middleton; one special first cousin, Kevin Detamore of OH and special friends, Jack Wodzinski and wife Beverly of Buckhannon.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one grandson, Caleb Fulton; one sister, Helen Jean Hinkle-Heater; one brother-in-law, Charles Vernon Heater; one niece, Dedorah “Dede” Heater-Tomblyn and his parents-in-law, Irene Hope and Llyod Cutlip.

Mr. Hinkle was a business owner and methodist by faith. He owned the Brushy Fork Mart for 31 years and Hinkle’s Masonry for 35 years. He was a hard worker who took pride in his work. When he wasn’t focused on his business ventures he enjoyed anything outdoors including building things, hunting, and fishing. He was a dedicated family man who enjoyed spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Ali Khan, hospice nurse, Irene Mae Carpenter and hospice aid Jack Daniels for their loving care of Bill.

In honoring Mr. Hinkle’s wishes, he will be cremated. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.polingstcliar.com. Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

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