The City of Foley announced on its website Tuesday, Dec. 3, that LaDonna Griffin Hinesley, the city’s marketing director for more than a decade, died peacefully over the weekend at her family home in Anniston, surrounded by loved ones.

Hinesley, 61, led Foley’s marketing department since 2012, promoting the city and the South Baldwin community through events including Christmas in the Park, Hometown Halloween, Music and a Movie and Midday Melodies. She represented Foley at statewide gatherings such as the 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 at Heritage Park.

She also oversaw operations at the Foley Railroad Museum and the Holmes Medical Museum and was instrumental in Foley being designated an American World War II Heritage City by the National Park Service, an honor awarded to only one city per state or territory. Hinesley guided the creation of a museum exhibit commemorating the designation, which includes artifacts and information about Foley during World War II including the Navy’s training base at Barin Field.

Hinesley’s work extended to local media, where she was a familiar voice as an annual commentator for WHEP’s broadcast of the Foley Christmas Parade.

Mayor Ralph Hellmich praised Hinesley’s contributions to the city.

“It’s sad. We’re going to miss her,” he 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,” Hellmich added. “She was kind-hearted but also did a great job overseeing marketing and all that entailed. She meant so much to the city.”

Hinesley 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 Mangold Orbik.

A memorial gathering was held Monday, Dec. 1 in Anniston. A Service of Resurrection is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 13 at First Presbyterian Church in Foley, giving the community a chance to honor her life and legacy. The service will be at 3 p.m. with vistation beginning at 2 p.m.

City officials expressed condolences to Hinesley’s family, friends and colleagues, noting that her dedication and service will continue to influence Foley for years to come.