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. 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. 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.