Vanita Gaye Hinkle

Vanita Gaye Hinkle, 95, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at her home surrounded by her family. She was born on March 21, 1931, in Cowen, and lived a long life marked by devotion to her family and the many generations who were blessed to know her.

She will be remembered with love by her family, whose lives stand as part of her enduring legacy. Gaye is survived by her sons, Bern Smith, Terry Smith, and Rusty Jarvis, and by her daughter, Sherry Porsch. She also leaves behind her 9 grandchildren, as well as her 12 great-grandchildren. The family would like to send a special thank you to Angie Hoover for all her help and care of our mother during this difficult time. The love shared across these generations will continue to carry her memory forward.

She was preceded in death by her son, Mack Smith; her father, Jackson Hoover; mother, Myrtle Boyers Hoover; daughter-in-law, Julie Jarvis; her brothers, Russell Hoover, Wilson Hoover, Hilbert Hoover, Jackson “Tink” Hoover, Bernard Hoover, and Harley Hoover; and her sister, Dorothy Handschumacher. Their memories remained part of the story of her life, and she is now reunited with those who went before her.

Gaye attended Cowen High School, she was a former receptionist for Dr. William Gray, and she formerly worked at the B.F. Goodrich Fabrication Plant.

Gaye enjoyed her flowers, gardening, wood working, hunting, fishing, camping, traveling and going to the West Virginia State Fair. One of her proudest memories was attending the Webster County Fair for over 90 years. 

Gaye's life will be remembered most deeply in the hearts of her family. Through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, her presence will continue to be felt for years to come. May her memory bring comfort to those who loved her and peace to all who mourn her passing. 

Visitation will be on Friday, September 11, 2026 from 12:00 to 1:00 with service starting at 1:00pm at Morris Funeral Home, Cowen with Pastor Terry Cunningham officiating. Burial will follow at the Handschumacher Cemetery, Upper Glade. A gathering of family and friends after the service will be held at the New Life Baptist Church, Cowen.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.morrisfuneralhomecowenwv.com

Services are entrusted to the care of Morris Funeral Home.