Gary Douglas “Herky” Kinser

Gary Douglas “Herky” Kinser, 89, resident of Columbia, died Thursday, November 6, 2025 at NHC Maury Regional Transitional Care Center.

A memorial service will be conducted Saturday, November 15, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Westminster Presbyterian Church with Rev. Jeff Kane officiating. The family will visit with friends on Saturday from 12:00 PM until service time at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials may be made to Westminster Presbyterian Church Room in the Inn, 2800 Trotwood Ave, Columbia, TN 38401; or The King's Daughters' School, 412 W 9th St, Columbia, TN 38401. Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com.

Born March 7, 1936 in Harlan, KY, he was the son of the late Virginia Renfro (William) Kinser, and helped reared by his grandparents, Katherine and Wilbur Poole. Herky received his Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from Middle Tennessee State University. In 1964 he married Elizabeth “Bettye” DeWitt. He was the owner and operator of Herky Outdoor Sports. Herky was an avid hunter and fisherman. He competed in Bass Tournaments, and enjoyed hunting Deer, Ducks, and Turkey. He also patented and sold his own Buckle Turkey Call. Herky was a booster for Central High School, served as a football official for many years, and coached Pop Warner, Little League, and Babe Ruth. He was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church.

In addition to his wife of 61 years, Bettye DeWitt Kinser, he is survived by sons, Douglas (Sharon) Kinser, and Gary (Mary) Kinser; grandchildren, Caitlin (Kirby) White, Wade Lopiccolo, Cami Kinser, and DeeAnna (Austin) Darnell; and great-grandchildren, Herky White, Jack Darnell, and Annie Cate Darnell.

The family wishes to express a special thank you to the doctors, nurses, and staff of NHC Maury Regional Transitional Care Center, especially Heather Jones, for the love and care provided to Herky during his stay.