HINSON, Howard Deane

The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona Tuesday, November 6, 2007 Howard D. Hinson, Sr., 88, a long-time Prescott resident and downtown businessman, died July 13, 2006, at the Margaret T. Morris Center. He was born Aug. 25, 1917, in Delmont, S.D. to Euel G. and Ethel I. (Wheatley) Henson, the fourth of five sons. Howard grew up in Butler, Bates County, Missouri. There he was self-employed in a poultry and produce business. H married Elizabeth Ann (Betty) Sheppard in September 1939. Seeking a healthier climate, they moved to Prescott, in 1949. Howard was a prime example of a small-town citizen-businessman. He began a retail store on Whiskey Row, named The Holiday Shop, a downtown business that continued for more than 50 years; operated the Highland Hotel, at which location accommodations have been offered for over a century. His store offered a downtown source for hunting and fishing supplies and licenses, firearms, ammunition, and archery items; uniforms, shoes, equipment, and trophies for sports of all seasons. For many years the Holiday Shop was a back-to-school stop to get the gym clothes for required physical education classes. In addition, he offered Native American jewelry, blankets, baskets and moccasins, as well as other "curios," for local residents and tourists who visited the downtown plaza. Many became acquainted at his store and came to appreciate his cheerful and courteous manner, honesty and fair dealing, quick wit, and unique humor. He supported countless community activities, including Prescott Little Leagues in the early days of that organization. He served as a Prescott City Councilman from 1968-1972. He was a member of the Sheriff's Posse, and a lifetime member of the Prescott Noon Lion's Club. He was the last surviving founding member of the Hassayampa Investment Club. Howard and Betty, his wife of over 51 years, raised their four children in Prescott and supported their education in the local schools. They were familiar faces in the smaller, more closely acquainted Prescott community of the 1950's and 60's. Following Betty's passing, Howard married Doris Snell-Hinson, who brought him a wonderful and loving relationship, and graced him with the addition of her loving family. Howard's wife Betty and his brothers, Laris, Robert, and Harold "Buck" Hinson, passed before him. Surviving are his wife Doris, of Prescott; brother C. M. "Chuck" Hinson (Lucille) of Rogers, Ark.; half-brother John Hinson (Mary) of Midland, Mich.; half-sister Jeanne Irish of Colorado; children, Mary E. Waterbury (Cameron) of Camp Verde, Barbara J. McFarim (Robert) of Camas, Wash., Howard, Jr. (Nancy) of Prescott, and Michael H. (Melinda Garrahan) of Oro Valley; step-children, William Snell (Jan) of Westlake Village, Calif., Rebecca Cowart (Hal) of Tucson, Sharon Nelden (Mike) of Poway, Calif., and Roberta Wall (Scott) of Salt Lake City, Utah; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; 11 step grandchildren; and 5 step great-grandchildren. A Memorial Service is planned for 11 a.m. Saturday, July 22, at the United Methodist Church, 505 W. Gurley St., Prescott. Hampton Funeral Home is assisting with the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donation to The Margaret T. Morris Center, 878 Sunset Avenue, Prescott, AZ 86305, and especially recognizes their loving care of Howard in his last time. Information provided by survivors.