Sharon Ann Hinkle

Sharon Ann (Preston) Hinkle 9/27/1938 - 8/24/2025 Sharon Ann Preston Hinkle passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, August 24, 2025. She was born on September 27, 1938, to Harlan and Elaine Rhode, the third of four children, and was raised on a farm near Rosalie, Nebraska. Her childhood was shaped by the rhythms of rural life—daily chores, 4-H projects, and riding to school by horse and wagon. These modest beginnings, supported by a loving family, laid the foundation for a life lived with purpose, passion, and perseverance. After graduating from Rosalie High School in 1956, in a class of just twelve students, Sharon attended Wayne State College and the University of Nebraska. She earned her teaching credential and a Bachelor's Degree in Business Education in 1962. She began her teaching career at Central High School in Omaha, where she taught for two years before setting off for new adventures in California. Driving her Ford Falcon west, she continued teaching in San Bernardino and then in Orange County. Sharon’s path took a new turn when she was recruited by IBM. She left the classroom to become a marketing support representative in Point Loma, working with what was then cutting-edge technology—electric typewriters and carbon paper. While IBM expanded her horizons, Sharon's true calling remained education. In 1975, she returned to the classroom as a Business Teacher in the San Diego Unified School District, joining the staff at Crawford High School. At Crawford, Sharon wore many hats: classroom teacher, coordinator of the business magnet program, mentor for the Future Business Leaders of America chapter, and advisor for the student store. Her leadership and dedication helped the school earn recognition as a California School of Excellence. She also earned her Master’s degree from San Diego State University, completing an additional 90 hours of post-graduate coursework. In 1992, Sharon was selected to join the founding staff of the new Scripps Ranch High School. There, she served as Department Chair, classroom teacher, resource teacher, and a member of the principal’s administrative council. She wrote grants, created curriculum, and developed programs that promoted business education helping the school achieve high honors and accreditations. On April 10, 1982, Sharon married John Hinkle. Together, they shared a love of gardening—especially roses—entertaining, traveling, reading, and football. They were devoted fans of the Nebraska Cornhuskers and made it a tradition to watch the Army vs. Navy game each year. After retiring, Sharon remained active in her community and professional organizations. She was involved with the California Business Education Association, Theta Alpha Delta, and the University of Nebraska Alumni Association. While her interests were diverse, her priorities always centered on her family and friends. Sharon is survived by her husband, John Hinkle; her siblings, Randall (Zelta) Preston, Deanna Bargmann; ten nieces and nephews; and many great-nieces and great-nephews. A memorial service will be held at Miramar National Cemetery on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 10:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to the University of Nebraska Foundation to support the College of Education.

Sharon Ann Hinkle

September 27, 1938 - September 25, 2025