04/28/2026
Former Music Loft alum, Derwin Hinson, has crossed the rainbow bridge. Please keep Derwin’s family in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate this difficult reality. Those who knew of Derwin knew that he was a masterful player and a boisterous and fun personality. Those who knew Derwin knew he was a kind and gentle soul, always willing to lend a helpful hand, an open ear, and offer insight from his vast experience in the music industry. Derwin will be greatly missed, and we are happy to have known him and had him as a part of The Music Loft family and history. Rest high, sir!
Derwin Conrad Hinson, Sr., age 67, of Nashville, Tennessee, peacefully entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on April 27, 2026 after a courageous battle with esophageal cancer.
Derwin was preceded in death by his parents, Conrad and Marlene Hinson.
He is survived by his loving wife, Alene Hinson; his children, Derwin Conrad Hinson Jr. (Coralan), Joshua Hinson, Stephen Hinson (Brittany), Denae Hinson, and Ruth Weber (Jordan); his brother, Danny Hinson (Debbie); his sister, Ramona Canady (Joey); four cherished grandchildren; and many beloved brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and countless dear friends whose lives were touched by his kindness, music, and faith.
A master of stringed instruments, Derwin’s life was a beautiful testimony of talent, joy, and devotion. He began his musical journey at the age of nine, performing with his family’s gospel group in North Carolina, where they recorded a weekly television program in Wilmington, North Carolina. From stage to television, his musical talent opened many doors. His journey led him to Nashville, where he performed on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry with country legend Charlie Louvin. He later toured with Vern Gosdin, appearing on national television programs including Crook & Chase, Nashville Now, and Austin City Limits, and performed at Willie Nelson's First Farm Aid. His gift of music brought many opportunities throughout his career, including the occasional jam with bluegrass legend Bill Monroe at the Bell Cove Club and many other country and bluegrass greats. He even spent his only Thanksgiving away from his family with George Jones in Texas. When his father fell ill, Derwin left Nashville and returned to Wilmington, North Carolina, to help his family while continuing to follow his musical passion and raise his own family.
For nearly fifty years, Derwin faithfully shared his love of music by teaching and mentoring others, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students and fellow musicians. He and his family also traveled extensively, sharing his one-man-band music ministry and bringing the joy of the Lord through music, humor, and heartfelt messages to churches and audiences across the region. For over seventeen years, Derwin hosted a bluegrass jam every Thursday night. What began as a small gathering of friends playing in the garage quickly grew into a full-blown event in front of his home in Kure Beach. Drawing vacationers and curious passersby alike, it became a cherished tradition people looked forward to year after year.
In keeping with his deep love and compassion for people, he and his family hosted the Pilgrim Pitch-In and Easter Pitch-In each year, bringing together friends, family, and strangers who otherwise had no holiday plans. Every chance he had, Derwin wanted to make sure everyone felt loved and cherished.
He became a beloved professional Santa Claus, bringing joy and treasured memories to countless children and families. His warmth and spirit led to many special appearances, including with the Nashville Symphony, NBC’s Christmas at the Grand Ole Opry, and the lighting of the Tennessee State Christmas Tree at the Capitol.
After the passing of his mother, Derwin and Alene moved to Nashville, where together they continued sharing their love of music through Backroads Grass, Branson on the Road, and later as the duo American DNA. Together they also served as Nashville tour guides with JoyRide, bringing smiles and stories to visitors from around the world.
Derwin was a father, a mentor, a musical evangelist, and a teacher. He loved the Lord, loved his family deeply, and dedicated his life to bringing joy to others through music, laughter, and love. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Because he touched so many lives, two Celebration of Life services will be held in honor of Derwin’s life and legacy—one in Nashville, Tennessee, and one in Kure Beach, North Carolina.
The Nashville Celebration of Life will be held at The Station Inn on April 29 at 2:00 p.m.
The Kure Beach Celebration of Life will be held at Kure Beach First Baptist Church, where Derwin and his family were longtime members, on Friday, May 1 at 1:00 p.m.
In honor of Derwin’s vibrant spirit, guests are invited to wear something that reflects what he loved most. Red was Derwin’s favorite color, and he especially loved Hawaiian shirts and western wear, so please feel free to wear something red, Hawaiian, or western. He would absolutely love that!
Above all, Derwin would want his life story to point others to Jesus Christ. His greatest desire was that those he loved would know the peace, forgiveness, and eternal hope found in the Lord. If he could speak to us today, he would say that more than anything, he wants to see you again in Heaven. He would lovingly encourage every heart to turn to Jesus, trust Him as Savior, and receive the gift of eternal life. “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Romans 10:13.
The family would also like to honor Derwin’s journey by encouraging awareness of esophageal cancer. This disease is often discovered in later stages because symptoms may not appear until it has advanced. Long-standing acid reflux or GERD can be a significant risk factor for some forms of esophageal cancer. If you have a history of frequent heartburn, reflux, trouble swallowing, or ongoing digestive symptoms, please speak with your doctor about whether further evaluation, including an endoscopy, may be appropriate. Derwin would want others to learn from his experience and seek help early, because early detection can save lives.
The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate team at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, whose care and dedication meant so much throughout Derwin’s journey; to Gentiva Hospice for their kindness, comfort, and support; and to the many family members, friends, churches, and loved ones who prayed faithfully, gave generously, and stood beside us during this difficult time. Your love and compassion will never be forgotten.
