Susan Elaine Hinkle

Susan Elaine Hinkle, aged 75, left us sooner than expected on October 6, 2024. She was born in Bedford, Indiana to David Lloyd and Nealdia Lea Reynolds, on December 1, 1948. Susan was born and raised in difficult circumstances that forged a personality of strength, determination and hard work. Driven by an endless determination to serve, she lived a life filled with hard work and joy.

Susan is survived by her loving husband, Austin Craig Hinkle and her daughter, Laura Smith (Brad), sons, Richard and Ryan, and daughter Renee (Blaine). She also leaves behind 18 grandchildren: Caleb (Clara), Joshua (Rachel), Rose (Tyler), River, Bethany, Adam (Alyssa), Rae, Rebekah (Sterling), Naomi, Sarah, Lydia, Austin, Andrew, Brian, Nathan, Kenny, Dylan, and Breanne. She also had 9 great-grandchildren: Evelynn, Daniel, Chloe, Sophie, Ezra, Ruth, Hallie, Nolan and Tyler. Her daughter, Ann Marie, preceded her in death.

Throughout her life, Susan was known for spunk and sarcasm. She often said “Dynamite comes in small packages.” and that her 5-foot-2 body housed a 5-foot-6 spirit. Her earlier years were a mix of hard and challenging, but she rose above all of that to forge a life of joy and service. From sewing hundreds of masks during the COVID-19 pandemic to participating in ongoing service and humanitarian projects, to helping Laura start a cookie business, she dedicated her life to following the example of Jesus Christ by serving those around her. 

Together with her beloved husband, Austin, they served 2 missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints – one to Ukraine and another one serving immigrants in downtown Salt Lake City. They also served countless individuals in several states and in various Church positions. She had a burning testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Her talents were immense. She was a gifted seamstress and quilter, baker extraordinaire, and was always trying new things. She was passionate about books and reading and making other people feel loved. Together she and Austin enjoyed going on road trips, long and short, at times even starting a trip without a destination in mind, just enjoying the scenery and time together. Inseparable, as always, they both served in the Jordan River and Manti, Utah Temples for many years. 

A viewing will be held on October 11, 2024, from 9:30 – 10:30AM. Her funeral will follow at 11:00AM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 6986 W McCuiston Avenue, Herriman, UT.

A graveside service will be held the same day at the Moroni Cemetery at 4:00 PM in Moroni, Utah.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Missionary fund in Susan's memory. 

Susan's legacy of kindness and stalwart faith will continue to inspire her family and friends. She will be forever remembered and cherished. She was dearly loved and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.