It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of Life Trustee, 2009 Distinguished Alumnus, and dedicated community member John Hine (’53) on Sept. 16. He was a true embodiment of Darlington's values, and his life was marked by exceptional leadership, selfless service, and an unwavering commitment to the betterment of our school and the greater Rome community.
In his professional life, John held various esteemed positions, including director of the Georgia Textile Manufacturers Association, director and member of the Executive Committee of the American Yarn Spinners Association, and president of the Textile Education Foundation. His tireless work within the textile industry was instrumental in shaping its progress and success.
John’s passion for service extended far beyond his career. He actively contributed to numerous civic organizations, serving on the boards of the Boys & Girls Club, Coosa Valley Fair Association, Darlington School, the Exchange Club, the Exchange Club Family Resource Center, Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce, Habitat for Humanity, the Open Door Children’s Home, and the United Way. Furthermore, he was chairman of the board of Citizen’s First Bank and a devoted member of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church.
In honor of his countless contributions, John was recognized with the Boys & Girls Club’s Man and Boy Award, the Heart of the Community Foundation’s Award of Honor and Board of Governor’s Award, and the Exchange Club’s Exchangite of the Year Award, among others. He was also inducted into the Academy of Georgia Tech Distinguished Alumni, honoring his remarkable achievements and lasting impact.
John’s dedication to Darlington remained steadfast throughout his life. In addition to his service as a Life Trustee, he was a member of the J.J. Darlington Society and the J. Daniel Hanks Heritage Society, as well as a longtime class agent. As recently as this spring, he visited campus to attend the annual Class of 1953 Lectureship, established and funded by his class in honor of their 50th reunion. John loved the lectureship, in part, I think, because it kept him connected to the values of his alma mater. It was a happy day when I saw the look on his face when I shared that the president of Georgia Tech was coming to campus to give the Class of 1953 Lectureship in 2023.
John was one of the first people I met during the interview process, and in every encounter that followed he was always a consummate gentleman, extending a hand in friendship and never failing to want to know how I was doing. When I think about what it means to live a life of wisdom, service, and honor, I will always think of John.
As we mourn the loss of John Hine, let us also celebrate the remarkable life he led and the indelible mark he left on Darlington and the countless lives he touched. May we find comfort in the knowledge that his legacy lives on through the values and wisdom he imparted to our community.
