Wilma Juanita Hinkson

Wilma “Billie” Hinkson of Sherwood, Arkansas, completed a long and well-lived life on February 14, 2025. Born on August 21, 1928, in Cabot, AR, to Arlie (Farris) and Alfred Barentine, Billie lived a life defined by love, resilience, and an unyielding dedication to those she held dear.

A proud member of Sylvan Hills Community Church, Billie was a homemaker in the truest sense—taking great joy in keeping a tidy house. Even as her eyesight began to fade, she could still spot the tiniest speck of dirt, much to the dismay of any dust bunny daring to cross her path. When she wasn’t keeping things in perfect order, she could be found tending to her flower garden, curling up with a good book, or working magic with her crochet hooks. Her weekly beauty shop visits were more than just upkeep—they were grand social affairs, where she caught up on the latest happenings and ensured her hair was just as polished as her home.

Billie’s strength and resilience were evident from an early age. At just 14, she left school to work in a munitions factory, helping to support both her family and the World War II effort on the home front. That same grit carried her through life, always ready to pitch in when the need arose. She later worked at the Arkansas School for the Deaf, bringing her fastidiousness and work ethic to yet another chapter of service.

Above all, Billie was dedicated to her family. Whether her kids, grandkids, or great-grandkids needed her, she was there—offering help, insight, and just the right amount of gentle nudging to keep everyone in line. Her devotion was the steady foundation upon which generations were built, and her presence will be deeply missed.

She now joins her beloved husband, Ulcie “Bill” Hinkson, and their son, Cecil Hinkson, in a well-earned rest. She was also preceded in death by her great-granddaughter, Sierra Berry. Left to cherish her memory are her children, Carol Young and John (Gina) Hinkson; grandchildren, David Parkman, Joshua Hinkson, Jessica Hair, and Shana Young; great-grandchildren, Eliza Parkman, Prudence Parkman, and Arden Hair; siblings, Doyle Barentine and Alice Cathey; and a host of extended family members who were blessed to know her.

Friends and family are invited to a visitation at 1:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM on Monday, February 24, 2025, at Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home. She will be laid to rest in Sumner Cemetery, Cabot, AR.

 

Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St., North Little Rock, AR  72114.  501-758-1170.