Paul Worley Hinnant, 97

Mr. Paul Worley Hinnant, 97, of Lake Waccamaw passed on Friday, October 23, 2026 in Wilmington.  He was born June 30, 1929 in Wilson, N.C. the son of the late Berry Lee Hinnant and Ruth Worley Hinnant.

His family moved to Whiteville to pursue the growing business of refrigeration and HVAC systems.

Hinnant served as a first sergeant in the Army National Guard and was a firearms instructor at Ft. Bliss, TX. He was also deployed during Hurricane Hazel. He earned an associate’s degree in electrical/HVAC systems from N.C. State University and became skilled draftsman.

Hinnant co-founded, owned and operated Hinnant’s Inc. with his father in Whiteville until retirement.

He was an avid sailor, boater and angler who enjoyed hunting, golf and reading. He travelled much of the globe.

Hinnant was a member of First Presbyterian Church, Whiteville Country Club, Waccamaw Sailing Club, Rotary, Hallsboro Hunting Club and ROMEOs (Retired Old Men Eating Out).

He is survived by a son, Lee Hinnant of Oak Island, N.C.; a daughter, Rebecca Brown (Macky) of Wilmington; grandchildren,Christopher Nance, Benjamin Nance (Amanda), Sydney Brown, Chelsea Andrews (Steven), Tyler Hinnant, and Kelly Vereen (Joe). He also has three great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and three sisters, Rosalie Palmesi, Jean Frink, Ann Cratch.

Interment will be in Columbus Memorial Park.

The family will hold a private service. Donations may be made to Lower Cape Fear Lifecare, 1414 Physicians Dr., Wilmington, N.C. 28401.Online condolences may be made at www.peacockfuneralhome.net