Upstate legend, former owner of World’s Largest Jeep Dealership, passes away

PICKENS, S.C. (FOX Carolina) – Beloved Upstate businessman and former car dealership owner Larry Hinkle has passed away, family confirmed.

Hinkle had a huge Jeep dealership in Pickens County in the 60s, 70s and 80s. For 10 years in a row, he held the distinction of having the world’s largest Jeep dealership.

He is often credited with igniting a passion for Jeeps in the Upstate.

Hinkle was also recognized as a good employer and someone who contributed to the community. Every year he would give away a Jeep.

He was awarded the Order of the Palmetto last year, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor.

His daughter said the 92-year-old passed away peacefully at home on Lake Jocassee around 4:20 a.m. on Wednesday.

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