Earnest Hinkle, age 77, of Barbourville, passed away Thursday, March 14, 2019, at his residence. He was born on December 15, 1941, to the late Charlie Hinkle and Gertrude Smith Hinkle in Knox County, Kentucky. On September 24, 1966, he was united in marriage to his loving wife Barbara Jean Hinkle who preceded him in death. He was a Truck Driver for Vanguard and a member of Christian Life Fellowship. He enjoyed drawing, painting, cooking and carpentry work.

Besides his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers: Cledo, Matthew and Clarence (C.D.) Hinkle and his sister: Shirley Ellen Sproles.

Survivors include his loving daughter: Michelle Denise Bruce and husband Lonnie Jr. of Barbourville, his brother: Larry R. Hinkle and wife Glenda of Barbourville, his sisters: Charlene Smith and husband Aubrey of Flat Lick, Agnes Merida and husband Wayne of Trace Branch, Judy Smith and husband Junior of Girdler, his grandchildren: Megan McDonald Smith, Micha McDonald, Christian Bruce, Conner Bruce, Noah Bruce and Mason Bruce and his great-grandchildren: Carter Bruce and Leagh Bruce. He is also survived by many dear nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends to mourn his passing.

Funeral Services for Earnest Hinkle will be 2:00 P.M. Monday, March 18, 2019, in the Hopper Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. David Shelton and Rev. Tommy Frazier officiating. Burial will follow in the Barbourville Cemetery with nephews serving as Pallbearers. Honorary Pallbearers are Hospice of the Bluegrass.  The family will receive friends at Hopper Funeral Home after 6:00 P.M. Sunday and on Monday after 10:00 A.M. until the funeral hour.