A native of Beaumont, Texas, Larry was born February 12, 1935, to Jack and Pearl Goff Tinkle.
Larry’s early years found him working alongside his older brothers Gene and Edward (Ed) in the family business, “Jacks Hardware”. Long before the Home Depots and the Lowes of the world, Jack’s was the local go-to place for all your hardware needs. A little later in life, Larry would become the older brother to JW and Will Tinkle, who later in their lives would carry the family torch, owning their own Jack’s Hardware locations.
During Larry’s high school years, he would meet his lifelong sweetheart-bride, Justine Chaney. Together, they were true High School Kids of the 50’s. Both were very active in the legendary “French High School” culture. Justine was a cheerleader, and Larry played football. Larry and Justine would end up being lifelong supporters of the school, as they cherished the times there that brought them together.
After graduating from French High, Justine and Larry would marry and start their life journey. Together, this journey would last 67 years, until Justine’s passing in January 2022.
Justine and Larry would go on to own many businesses: Larry’s True Value Hardware and Feed Store – Beaumont; Larry’s Antique Mall & Flea Market – Beaumont; Larry Tinkle Sandpit – Vidor; Larry Tinkle Properties – Beaumont; and most notably, Larry’s Old Time Trade Days – Winnie.
Justine and Larry loved each other very much. They loved to travel, collect antiques, and promote their Antique Mall and later Trade Days. They were known as “regulars” at the Canton and Round Top markets for many years, building many friendships along the way.
Above all, Justine and Larry loved their family. They beamed with pride when speaking of their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
After retiring, they built the home of their dreams; this allowed them to showcase the many items they collected over the years. They loved hosting family get-togethers, especially for holidays. They always made everyone feel welcome, and no one ever left hungry.
Larry was an excellent salesman and promoter. He also loved to see success in others. Whether it be a Trade Days vendor who was just starting out or a long-term vendor who had been in business for years, he was equally happy to see them succeed.
Larry was the best storyteller. Some of his best stories were detailed events from his youth growing up in Beaumont, Texas and stories from his many hunting and fishing adventures on the Neches River and Gilbert Woods.
Larry was a very generous person. There are countless stories of how he helped people in life to overcome financial setbacks and hardships.
He also served as mentor to many men, who still credit their success to him.
During the last years of Justine’s life, Larry demonstrated to all those around him what True Love is supposed to look like. He was by her side to the very end.
Larry is survived by his son Larry (Rip) Tinkle Jr. of Winnie, Texas; His nephew Lee Lowery, who he and Justine helped raise, his wife Kathy of Waxahachie, Texas; granddaughter Stephanie Brumley and husband Jamy of Hillister, Texas; grandson Scott Tinkle and wife Heather of Winnie, Texas; grandson Devin Cryer and wife Rachel of Hamshire, Texas; and great grandkids Preslie Morris and husband Travis of Vidor, Texas; Joyanna Brumley and fiancé Nick Hodge of Buna, Texas; Jack Casen Brumley and wife Katie of Warren, Texas; Jayleigh Brumley of Buna, Texas; Mckenzie Tinkle, and Karter Tinkle of Winnie, Texas; and great, great, grandchild Ryder Morris of Vidor, Texas.
Larry also leaves behind brothers JW Tinkle and wife Linda of Beaumont, Texas; Will Tinkle and wife Susie of Beaumont, Texas; the best Daughter-in-law in the world Billye Tinkle of Evadale. Texas; and a host of other nieces, nephews, and friends.
Larry is preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Pearl Tinkle, wife Justine, and brothers Gene and Ed Tinkle.
A visitation for Larry will be held Wednesday, May 1, 2024 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Forest Lawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 4955 Pine Street, Beaumont, Texas 77703. A celebration of life will occur Thursday, May 2, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Forest Lawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park.
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