Lonnie Berry Tinsley, Jr.

Lonnie Berry Tinsley, Jr., age 87, husband of Sylvia McKittrick Tinsley passed away Sunday, April 20, 2025 at his home.

He was born on August 8, 1937 in Clinton, South Carolina and was the son of the late Lonnie Berry Tinsley, Sr. and Annie Kelley Tinsley. In June 1976 Lonnie retired after 22 years of service as a proud veteran from the United States Navy.

While serving, he and his wife Sylvia were able to travel around the world. After his military career, he went on to work for Michelin where he retired again in December of 1993. As “side” hustles to his Michelin career, he was a chicken farmer and LOVED breeding his cattle. He was well known locally for his legendary open fire chicken stew and hash recipes. His handyman skills were top notch and there wasn’t much of anything he couldn’t fix! (at least in his humble opinion). On the exterior Lonnie was a no-nonsense hardworking man, but he really had a sneaky sense of humor about him. He enjoyed watching his old Gunsmoke episodes and listening to the heroes of classic country music.

He was also a member of South Main Baptist Church in Greenwood SC, a Hejaz Shriner, and was a golf instructor during his Navy days.

He will be dearly missed and will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Lonnie is survived by his wife Sylvia of 66 years, his son, Michael Tinsley (Chi); his daughter, Christy Tinsley; his sisters, Barbara Tinsley, Brenda Jones, Ferona Stubley; his grandchildren, Baylon Hunter (Addyson), Sean Miller, Athena Tinsley; his great-grandson, Bentley Hunter.

He is also loved by his many surviving nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends. In addition to his parents, Lonnie is preceded in death by his brother, Berry Tinsley.

The family would like to express their gratitude to all the health care professionals of VIA Health Partners (formally Hospice of Laurens Co.) for the great care Lonnie received over the last 19 months.

Graveside services with Military Honors will be held on Sunday, April 27, 2025 at Pinelawn Memory Gardens at 3:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requested memorials be made to Tunnels to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, New York 10306.

Condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.grayfuneralhome.com

Gray Funeral Home of Clinton is assisting the Tinsley family with arrangements.