It is with profound sorrow that the Akron, Ohio community mourns the passing of Nicole E. H. Stratton (née Hinton), a cherished daughter, sister, friend, and educator. Nicole passed away following a courageous battle with cancer, a fight she met with grace, strength, and unwavering resilience.
Her death, which comes just weeks after the heartbreaking loss of her sister Amanda Hinton to the same illness, marks an incredibly painful chapter for all who knew and loved the Hinton family.
Nicole Stratton was a proud native and lifelong resident of Akron, Ohio. She graduated from Central High School (CHS), where she left a lasting mark as a bright, driven, and compassionate student.
Nicole’s love of learning and dedication to helping others inspired her to pursue a career in education, and she later returned to her roots as a teacher—becoming not only an alumna of CHS but also one of its most beloved faculty members.
As an educator, Nicole poured her heart into her work. She was deeply committed to her students’ growth, not only academically but personally as well. She was known for her patience, her creativity in the classroom, and her ability to connect with young people in meaningful ways.
Countless former students have shared how Nicole encouraged them to believe in themselves, always pushing them to reach their full potential. Her classroom was a place of trust, inspiration, and warmth.
Beyond her professional life, Nicole was a deeply family-oriented individual. Her love for her family was immeasurable, and her bond with her late sister Amanda was especially close.
The two women supported each other through every step of their respective battles with cancer—offering strength, comfort, and unwavering love through the most difficult of times. Their nearly back-to-back passings are a devastating loss for their family, friends, and community.
Nicole’s personality was a rare blend of kindness, intelligence, and quiet strength. She had an infectious smile, a sharp wit, and a heart that welcomed everyone. She was active in local community and faith-based initiatives and was always ready to lend her voice or hands to a cause greater than herself.
Whether helping a student after hours, volunteering at a community event, or offering encouragement to someone in need, Nicole lived her life in service to others. Her battle with cancer, though deeply challenging, revealed the depth of her courage.
Even during the toughest moments, she remained hopeful and strong, offering light to others even as her own health declined. Her story has inspired many in Akron and beyond—reminding us all of the importance of compassion, family, and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Nicole is survived by her loving family, who stood by her side throughout her illness and who now must face the unimaginable grief of losing two beloved daughters and sisters in such a short span. The community is rallying around them, offering prayers, support, and condolences as they navigate this painful time.
A joint memorial service will be planned to honor both Nicole and Amanda, allowing the many people whose lives they touched to come together, share memories, and celebrate the incredible women they were. Details will be shared by the family once finalized.
