Mary Lee (née Coleman) Hinkle was born on January 7, 1943, in Carlisle, Mississippi, to Charlie Coleman Sr. and Vella Newsome Coleman. On Tuesday, August 18, 2026, she peacefully departed this earthly life at home, surrounded by her loved ones. Mary was united in marriage to Henry Lee Hinkle Sr., and to this union were born three sons: Kevin Darnell Hinkle, Timothy Edwin Hinkle, and Henry Lee Hinkle Jr. Mary was a devoted woman of God and a faithful member of Greater New Hope Baptist Church, where she served on the Mother’s Board for many years. Mary lived in Chicago, Illinois, before relocating to Rockford, Illinois, in 1990. While in Chicago, she worked at Emconite. After moving to Rockford, she worked at Anderson Packaging until her retirement. During this time, Mary also worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), a role that reflected her caring and compassionate nature. Following her retirement, she continued working with Rockford Public Schools as part of the Septran transportation program. Mary was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt. She leaves behind a beautiful legacy of faith, love, strength, and countless cherished memories. Among those who will carry on her memory are her three sons, Kevin Darnell Hinkle (Demeka), Timothy Edwin Hinkle (Leonda), and Henry Lee Hinkle Jr. (Jakara); 15 grandchildren and 14 greatgrandchildren. Two sisters, Lottie (Donald) Russey of Rockford, Illinois, and Selena (William) Bonaparte of Evans, Georgia; one brother, Stanley (Tracy) Coleman of Marrero, Louisiana. Mary also shared a special bond with her niece, Brenda Hinkle, whose unwavering love, support, and compassionate care brought Mary comfort and companionship. Her devotion as both a niece and caregiver held a special place in Mary’s life. Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Charlie Coleman Sr. and Vella Newsome Coleman; three sisters, Pearlie Mae Coleman, Rosie Lee Newsome, and Josie Coleman; two brothers, Charlie Coleman Jr. and Levi Coleman; and special niece, Veronica T

Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, August 28, 2026 at Greater New Hope Missionary Baptist Church 4615 Auburn Street. Burial in Sunset Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.