Dr. Alan James Hinkley

Lieutenant Colonel Alan James Hinkley, DDS, of Hallstead, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026, after a prolonged illness. He was the son of the late Kirk S. Hinkley, Sr. and Marion (Keigwin) Hinkley. Guided throughout his life by faith, devotion to family, and a deep commitment to serving others, he leaves behind a legacy of compassion and service. Dr. Hinkley was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend. He shared 61 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife Nancy. Together they built a family that was the center of his life. He is survived by his wife Nancy; his sons, Alan James Jr. and his wife, Maria, of Lenoir City, Tennessee, and Jonathan and his wife, Jessica, of Ridgefield, Connecticut; his brother Robert Hinkley of Vestal, New York and his cherished grandchildren Matthew, Joshua, Kathryn (Gracey), Kiera, Duncan, and Grayson, all of whom brought him great pride and joy. He was preceded in death by his son, Michael, and brother Kirk S. Hinkley, Jr. Education and service shaped Dr. Hinkley’s life. After graduating from the Blue Ridge School District, he attended Syracuse University and later earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Buffalo Dental School. After completing an internship at Upstate Medical Center, he began a distinguished dental career that spanned 46 years in Pennsylvania and New York. Known for his steady hands, compassionate care, and genuine interest in his patients’ lives, he built lasting relationships with families across several generations. In addition to his private practice, he served his community as a school dentist and as a member of the Blue Ridge School Board. A man of strong faith and service, Dr. Hinkley was a lifetime member of the Masonic Blue Lodge No 338 and a dedicated member of the Hallstead Presbyterian Church, where he served as elder and chaired the Property and Finance Committee. He believed in giving back to his community and took special joy in encouraging young people. Over the years he volunteered as a Webelos leader, coached Little League baseball, and served as President of the Blue Ridge Pee Wee Football program, always encouraging teamwork, character, and perseverance. In addition to his civilian career, Dr. Hinkley proudly served his country with distinction as a Lieutenant Colonel and as Commander of the 317 th Medical Detachment 99 th Regional Support Command in Scranton, Pennsylvania. From 1974 to 2001 he provided dental care to service members and diplomatic personnel in the United States and around the world. His international assignments included service at U.S. embassies in Nairobi, Kenya; Cairo, Egypt; Islamabad, Pakistan; and Panama City, Panama. His military service reflected the same sense of duty, professionalism, and compassion that defined every aspect of his life. Dr. Hinkley will be remembered for his kindness, deep faith, gentle spirit, and dedication to his family, community, and country. A private graveside service will be held at the discretion of the family. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in honor of Dr. Alan J. Hinkley at www.alz.org.

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Dr. Alan James Hinkley

November 30, 1941 - March 10, 2026