James Hinton, Jr.

James Hinton, Jr., was born on June 8, 1937, in Garner, North Carolina, to the late James Hinton Sr. and Dorothy Williams Hinton. He was educated in the Garner public school system and after graduation, he moved to Virginia in pursuit of greater opportunities.

From an early age, James had a passion for baseball. He was a dedicated coach for the Aragona Pembroke Little League for many years and remained a lifelong fan of the New York Yankees. His favorite player was none other than Derek Jeter.

Professionally, James worked as a baker for many years, including positions at S & W Cafeteria and later Piccadilly Restaurant, from which he retired. After retiring from Piccadilly, he delivered pizzas for Pizza Hut. Known for his incredible baking talent, James began making sweet potatoes pies as a hobby for family and friends. Encouraged by his grandchildren, he began selling his homemade pies across Hampton Roads and eastern North Carolina. In addition to his famous pies, he baked birthday cakes, wedding cakes, and treats for every special occasion.

A man of deep faith, James loved the Lord and found great joy in singing praises. He was a faithful member of First Lynnhaven Baptist Church, first under the leadership of the late Rev. Dr. Ervin M. Scott and now Rev. Dr. Luther S. Allen III. In 1969, James was a founding member of The Word Singers, alongside Ernest Clark, Golden Sheppard, and Ulyssis Walker. The Word Singers traveled up and down the East Coast, performing in churches and on radio broadcasts such as WPCE on Sundays.

James was known for his magnetic personality and a smile that could light up any room. While he loved spending time with friends, the most cherished moments were those spent with his family.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Ruby Juanita Hinton; his parents; his sisters, Jane Olive, Willie Mae, Betty Rose, and Betsy Yvonne; and his son-in-law, Wilbert Dickens.

James leaves behind a legacy of love and sweet memories. He is survived by his children -- Cynthia Dickens of Virginia Beach, VA; Sharon Fogg (Richard) of Raleigh, NC; James Roscoe Hinton (Nancy) of Virginia Beach, VA; Lamont Hinton of Anchorage, Alaska. 

His grandchildren include Tracy Bayonne (John), Wilbert Hinton-Dickens, Taylor Dickens (Mary), Robert Fogg, Eddie Terry, Kaci Hinton, Jason Hinton, and Jami Hinton. He also leaves behind a host of great-grandchildren; his sister, Dorothy Cornelia Atkinson; his best friend, Sam Crowder; his fellow members of The Word Singers; and a host of extended family and dear friends.