Raymond “Sonny” Hinckley

MANCHESTER – Raymond “Sonny” Hinckley, 81, of Manchester, passed away peacefully on Feb. 16, 2026, surrounded by his loving family, after a courageous battle with kidney disease.

Born on Aug. 5, 1944, in Gardiner, Maine, Ray was the son of Raymond and Blanche Hinckley. He graduated from Gardiner High School in 1963.

Ray dedicated many years of his career to Statler Tissue, where he served as Union President. In 1987, he became a representative for the United Paper workers International Union, a role he held until his retirement in 2006. He was deeply committed to advocating for working families and took great pride in serving his fellow workers.

Ray was known for his fun-loving spirit and quick sense of humor. He loved watching sports and rarely missed a game, always ready with commentary and good-natured debate. His spirited conversations, laughter, and unmistakable personality will be remembered fondly by all who knew and loved him.

After retiring, Ray and his beloved wife of 60 years, Donna, cherished spending their winters in Florida, escaping the cold Maine weather. He especially treasured the time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought him endless joy.

Ray was predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his loving wife, Donna (Mansir) Hinckley; his son, Ray Hinckley and his wife Lisa; his daughter, Kim Keezer and her husband Gary; his grandchildren, Kevin Keezer and his wife Erica, Kristin Mooney and her husband Bryan, Jessica Hinckley, Brandon Keezer, and Garrett Keezer; and his great-grandchildren, Emma, Sydney, and Gavin Mooney; Elijah Saulnier; and Ryder and Hunter Keezer. His great-grandchildren lovingly knew him as “Old Grampy,” a title he wore with pride.

He is also survived by his sister, Trudy Hinckley, as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

There will be a graveside service on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 11 a.m., at Cherry Hill Cemetery in West Gardiner.

Arrangements and guidance are in the care of Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, Maine.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Staples Funeral Home website, http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com