FOLEY – The City of Foley is deeply saddened to share the loss of Marketing Director LaDonna Griffin Hinesley.
She passed away peacefully over the weekend at her family home in Anniston, surrounded by loved ones.
City officials extend their heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues. Hinesley’s dedication, service, and passion for Foley will continue to influence the community she served for more than a decade.
Mayor Ralph Hellmich said Hinesley’s impact was felt across the city.
“It’s sad. We’re going to miss her,” Hellmich said. “She meant a lot to this community, and her infectious smile and enthusiasm, the boards she oversaw and the Caboose Club. They’re all going to miss her. We’re going to miss her.”
“She was such a giving person,” he continued. “She was kind-hearted, but also did a great job overseeing marketing and all that entailed. She meant so much to the city.”
Hinesley became Foley’s marketing director in 2012. Under her leadership, the department promoted the City of Foley and the South Baldwin community, and organized major public events including Christmas in the Park, Hometown Halloween, Music and a Movie, and Midday Melodies.
She also represented Foley at statewide events such as the annual Governor’s Tourism Conference and served as city liaison to the Caboose Club – the volunteer group that operates the model train display at the Foley Railroad Museum – as well as the Foley Museum and Archives Board and the event train that carries passengers around Heritage Park. Hinesley oversaw operations at the Foley Railroad Museum and the Holmes Medical Museum.
Among her many accomplishments, Hinesley led the initiative to have Foley designated as an American World War II Heritage City by the National Park Service. The designation recognizes communities for their contributions to the war effort and for preserving the legacy of those who served. Only one city in each state or territory receives the honor.
She also guided the development of the exhibit at the Foley Railroad Museum commemorating the designation. The display features artifacts, photographs, and information about Foley during World War II, including the Navy’s training base at Barin Field, which opened in 1942.
Additionally, Hinesley was a familiar voice to many residents as an annual commentator for WHEP’s broadcast of the Foley Christmas Parade.
She is survived by her husband, Phillip Hinesley; her mother, Betty Griffin; siblings, Pam Stracner (Darryl), Greg Griffin (Laura) and Joe Griffin; two bonus daughters, Maggie McDonald (Tim) and Anna Orbik (Aaron); and grandchildren, Maggie Orbik, Oliver McDonald and Marigold Orbik.
A memorial gathering was held Monday, Dec. 1 in Anniston. A Service of Resurrection will take place Saturday, Dec. 13 at First Presbyterian Church in Foley, giving the community an opportunity to honor her life and legacy.