SARASOTA, FL—Richard “Rea” Hinch, 90, of Sarasota and Ft. Meyers, Fla., passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 23, 2026. Born on March 21,1936, in Rockford, Ill., he was the eldest son of Richard Leo Hinch and Frances Alice Hart.
A graduate of Georgia Tech, Rea worked as an industrial engineering consultant for various companies in the textile and apparel industry.
He shared a loving marriage of 57 years with his wife, Janet Harrison Hinch, who preceded him in death in 2024. Together they built a family centered on love, faith, hospitality, and service to others. He was known for his sense of adventure and zest for life. Rea treasured time spent with family gatherings, celebrations, and the traditions that connected generations. Rea’s outlook was best embodied by Ralph Waldo Emerson’s quote, “To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition.”
Throughout his life, Rea was committed to the great outdoors, conserving nature and living a life of curiosity. He loved classical music and grew the “Music on the Hill” program in East Greenwich, R.I.
Rea and his wife were active participants in their church communities over the years, including congregations in Chattanooga, East Greenwich, the Northern Neck and Sarasota.
Rea’s legacy lives on through his three children, Richard Rea Hinch Jr., Katherine Hinch Greene and Phillips Harrison Hart Hinch. His four grandchildren brought him tremendous joy and pride.
A private family service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to his favorite non-profit organization, ECHO Global Farm in Ft. Meyers, FL, or Wicomico Parish Church in Wicomico Church.
