Roy Harold Hinton, age 90, passed away on December 23, 2025.
Harold was born on January 16, 1935, in Jones County, Mississippi, to Roy and Gladys (Ezell) Hinton. In 1937, the family moved to Hattiesburg where Harold was raised and where a lifelong love of music began, one that would shape his career, his service, and his legacy. He attended the University of Southern Mississippi where he earned both a bachelor's and a master's degree in music education. He began his career in Richton, Mississippi, teaching part time and organizing a band program, while attending graduate school. He was also a member of the 313th Army Reserve Band from 1955 until 1961.
Harold married his wife Sylvia (Price) in August 1957. They later moved to Quitman, Mississippi, where he served the Quitman School District for 30 years as a band director, principal, assistant superintendent, and superintendent. He and Sylvia were active members of First Baptist Church Quitman where he was a deacon. He also served as an interim choir director for First Baptist Church Quitman and several other churches in the area.
Many students and fellow educators were profoundly influenced by Harold's leadership. He was a gifted educator who helped students believe in themselves and recognize their talents, blessing countless lives through his guidance, encouragement, and example. After retiring from education, Harold and Sylvia moved to Brandon, Mississippi, where they became members of First Baptist Church Jackson. They sang in the Reflections Choir, and he participated in the symphony.
For the next 10 years, he began a second career as a realtor and a homebuilder. Following his second retirement, Harold and Sylvia enjoyed traveling together, visiting 47 states, Canada, and 15 national parks. They treasured their retirement years, especially the time they spent with their grandchildren. A Christian, friend, son, devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and uncle, Harold was generous with his time and always willing to help anyone in need.
Harold was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Sylvia.
He is survived by his sister, Doris Osborne; daughters, Karen Hinton Chapman and Kathy Hinton Ross (Curtis); grandchildren, Christopher Paul Chapman and Kimberly Chapman Edwards (Benjamin), and Sarah Grace Ross; great-granddaughter, Anna Camille Edwards; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
The family wishes to thank caregiver Donna Fields for her devotion and love, and Jane McLendon for her companionship during his later years.
Visitation was held at 10:00 a.m. in the chapel of First Baptist Church Jackson, 431 North State Street, on Friday, January 2, 2026, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m.
Burial took place at Lakeland Place Cemetery across from Pinelake Church on Lakeland Drive.
Memorials may be made in memory of Harold Hinton to the MS Lions All-State Band, 12480 Lebanon Pinegrove Rd, Terry, MS 39170; or Alzheimer's Association Attn: Donor Services Floor 17, 225 N Michigan Av., Chicago, IL 60601 or online at ALZ.ORG.
Submitted by Memoriams and Sebrell Funeral Home
