Hilda Marie Nieves

OZARK…Mrs. Hilda Marie Nieves, a resident of Ozark, died early Wednesday morning, July 16, 2025, at her home. She was 92.

In keeping with the wishes of the family, there are no public services planned at this time. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements.

Hilda was born in the winter of 1932, in the small community of Skipperville, Alabama. Life there was quiet and close, filled with simple joys and strong family ties. She spent her childhood playing beneath the pine trees, helping around the house, and building the kind of character that would carry her through all her days. Skipperville was where she learned the value of kindness, hard work, and resilience.

As a young girl with a bright spirit and a curious mind, Hilda eventually moved to Ozark and attended Dale County High School. She graduated proudly with the Class of 1950, leaving a mark on everyone who knew her—through her grace, gentle laughter, and her undeniable spark. After school, she began working at Sheppard’s Jewelry Store, a place where her keen eye and thoughtful nature made her a beloved part of the local community. She had a way of making each customer feel like they mattered, whether they were picking out something simple or searching for the perfect gift.

In 1954, Hilda’s journey took her far from home to Long Island, New York, after she married the love of her life and then to Puerto Rico where they raised their children. It was a new chapter filled with new experiences, and she embraced the adventure with the same steady heart she’d always carried. Years later, she moved once more—this time to Houston, Texas—where she did something truly special: she started her own travel agency. Hilda helped others discover the world and made their trips unforgettable. It wasn’t just about booking flights and hotels—it was about making dreams come true. She poured love and attention into every detail, because that’s just who she was.

Eventually, Hilda found her way back to Ozark, the place where her roots ran deep. She retired there, surrounded by memories and familiar faces, and spent her golden years tending to her beloved yard. She took great pride in keeping it beautiful. Flowers bloomed under her care, and birds came to visit like old friends. Even when it became harder for her to get around, she still made sure her yard reflected her love for nature and beauty.

Hilda’s energy was something people noticed. It wasn’t loud or flashy—but it was steady, kind, and full of life. Whether she was sharing stories, giving advice, or simply showing up for the people she loved, she had a way of making everything feel a little brighter. Her absence leaves a quiet space in the hearts of all who knew her, and her memory will be cherished for generations.

Hilda was preceded in death by her parents John Emmett and Dovie Mae Smith, husband, Anthony J Nieves, son Anthony J Nieves Jr., daughter, Christina Marie Nieves, sisters Edna Arnold, Evelyn Carroll, and Sara Catherine Simmons, brothers Fred Smith and Jack Smith, a niece Maria Dunlap and Bill Carroll Jr.

She is survived by her oldest daughter TerryAnn Garcia-Villamil; her grandsons Hector Garcia-Villamil, Bryan Anthony Nieves, and her granddaughter and caregiver Kayla Marie Nieves; four great grandchildren Hector Alejandro and Leia Nicole Garcia-Villamil, and Saphyra Alicia and Bryan Silas Nieves; several nieces and nephews.