Civil Rights Pioneer Milton Hinton Dies at 99

Civil Rights leader Milton Hinton died on August 22 at the age of 99, following a brief illness. His wife, Betti Hinton, described him as a man with an honest and gentle spirit who deeply loved Black communities and was a steadfast advocate for justice and equality.

Hinton's extensive career included roles as the former president of the NAACP Cincinnati Branch, a Great Living Cincinnati honoree, a veteran, and a retired professor, department head, and vice provost at the University of Cincinnati. Born in New Jersey in 1927, he experienced segregation and pursued higher education at Glassboro State College and Columbia University.

After retiring in 1992, Hinton remained active, forming the Committee of 51 to discuss community issues. He also led protests against The Enquirer's reporting on Black men and engaged with the newspaper's editorial board to improve coverage. Hinton's passion for his community was further evidenced by his elaborate fish fry dinners, which were a significant social gathering.

Milton Hinton is survived by his wife, Betti, his son Milton Hinton Jr., his daughter Milbeth Hinton Allen, his nephew, and two granddaughters. A celebration of his life and accomplishments will be held at Bethel Baptist Church on Saturday, September 12, with a ceremony, visitation, and service, followed by burial with military honors at Spring Grove Cemetery and a fish fry.