Barbara Ann Hinkley

Barbara Hinkley (nee Ford) was born May 16, 1947, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Alice and Thomas Ford. Barbara was preceded in death by the love of her life, J.R. Hinkley, to whom she was married for forty years. She is survived by her daughter, Kelly Glisan Cahill, son-in-law Gene, and two grandchildren, Conor, and Aileen Cahill.

The first in her family to graduate from college, Barbara earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Southeast Missouri State. She began her career at St. Charles High School in 1974 as a social studies teacher, eventually continuing on to St. Charles West High School.

Barbara had a passion for teaching, cared deeply for her students, and utilized innovative methods to engage them. She was the recipient of many honors during her 25-year career: Missouri Outstanding Social Studies Teacher of the Year, St. Charles West’s 1989 Teacher of the Year, Key Club Outstanding Faculty Member, an award she particularly valued as the students made the selection, and various St. Charles Public School leadership, student welfare and publication awards. Barbara was recognized as a mentor teacher by the National Education Association and served as one of 10 top educators who developed an Education Testing Service licensing exam for social studies teachers. A significant source of pride was her selection by the National Endowment for the Humanities and Harvard Graduate School of Education, to participate in “American History: The New Scholarship on Women” summer course at Harvard. Barbara served as head coach for St. Charles West HS women’s track and established and coached their women’s cross-country program.

After retiring from teaching, Barbara built a successful antique business from the ground up and continued its operation for over 20 years until her passing. Through her business, she established a loyal clientele and many valued friendships.

Barbara had an amazing eye for decorating, and one of her and J.R.’s homes was featured in Midwest Living Magazine. She was a voracious reader, loved to dance and held her own on the racquetball court back in the day. Barbara enjoyed travel to Britain and Europe with her husband and dear friends, even organizing and leading a few tours to Britain for fellow antiques enthusiasts. She was generous with her time, fun-loving and enjoyed marking special occasions with family and friends.

She was loved by her family immensely and was proud of and delighted by her grandchildren. Barbara will be missed immeasurably by her family and friends. 

Donations are requested for the St. Louis Area Food Bank, Toys for Tots, and Heifer International.

Services are private.