James “Hugh” Tinkler, age 86, of Bonifay, Florida passed away January 8, 2024, at his home.
He was born July 14,1937 in Dallas, North Carolina to the late George Tinkler and Belle Harmon Tinkler.
In addition to his parents, Hugh was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Roberta “Bert” Tinkler.
Hugh’s chosen career as a tool and die maker began in Dallas, North Carolina as an apprentice at F.A. Young Machine Company.
After working several years at the company, he decided to further his education by taking the machinist and tool and die program at Gaston College in Dallas, North Carolina.
While attending evening classes, Hugh continued to work 40 to 60 hours a week. After successful completion of the program, Hugh worked at Productive Tool Corporation in Dallas, North Carolina. In 1972 Hugh and his family moved to Bonifay, Florida where he continued his trade of tool and die maker at A and R Iron Works in Bonifay, Florida and Reliable Metals in Geneva, Alabama.
Hugh’s work ethic and service to his country led him to serve over 35 years in the Air National Guard in North Carolina, Alabama and Mississippi and he served in various missions and training exercises in Northern Europe and Central and South America.
Hugh was a lifetime member of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers and a lifetime member of the Masonic Order and a member of the Bethlehem Lodge #275. He was also a member of Union Hill #246, Order of the Eastern Star.
Hugh enjoyed auto racing, fishing, farming, visiting Louisiana Cajun Country with his wife Bert and spending time with family and friends.
Hugh is survived by his four children, daughter Greta Tinkler, son Maurice Tinkler, daughter Anna Kelly and daughter Paris Henderson. Grandson Kristian Tinkler, great grandson Lachlan Tinkler, brother Max Tinkler, sister Gayle Oliver and many other family members and friends.
In keeping with his request, Hugh will be cremated with no services.
