Debra Joan Tinkle

Debra “Debbie” J. Tinkle, 77, formerly of rural Knightstown passed away Saturday, February 7, 2026 at Franciscan Hospice House. She was born October 14, 1948 in New Castle to the late Gilbert M. and Juanita L. (Kennedy) Kriner.

Debbie graduated from New Castle High School then pursued her passion for hair at beauty college in Anderson, where she became a talented beautician for over 45 years. She had also worked part time at Hills Dept. Store as an Associate for more than 5 years. A dedicated member of Kennard Friends Church, she found joy in various activities, including solving crossword and word search puzzles, listening to music, flower gardening, and traveling all around the world with her husband, Larry. Debbie also loved cooking and baking (which she was extremely talented at), but her greatest pleasure came from attending events involving her children and grandchildren. Additionally, she was an active participant in the Red Hat Society, recreational bowling in several women's leagues and enjoyed raising animals.

She is survived by a daughter, Sheri Harmon (Eddie Hager); a son, Brian Tinkle (fiancé, Tonya Lewis); two grandsons, Bayley (wife, Bayleigh) Tinkle and Mason Tinkle; great granddaughter, Addie Tinkle; brothers, Jim (wife, Marty) Kriner and Mike Kriner; sisters-in-law, Linda Kriner, Jhon Ellingwood and Nancy Tinkle and many nieces and nephews that were a great joy to her life.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Larry G. Tinkle; brothers, Jerry Kriner and Dickey Kriner (infant).

Services will be at 12:00 p.m. Friday, February 13, 2026 at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service Knightstown Chapel with Pastor Bob Lines officiating. Burial will follow in Green Hills Memory Gardens. Visitation will be on Thursday, Feb. 12 from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Greater Indiana Alzheimer’s Association or Kennard Friends Church. You may express condolences or share a memory of Debbie at www.hinsey-brown.com.