Hilma H. Nepote, age 87, of Perry, FL and formerly of Decatur, GA, died Tuesday August 10, 2010. Hilma was born September 14, 1922 in Kentucky to Dena and Otis Helton. She grew up in Eldorado, IL and attended Business College in Evansville, IN, prior to enlisting in the U.S. Navy (WAVES) during World War II. While in the Navy, she was trained at Hunter College in New York, and rose to the rank of Petty Officer 2nd Class. She was stationed at Cecil Field in Jacksonville, FL. Hilma considered her years of service most meaningful and memorable, and she was proud to have served. In 1944, she married Cecil Nepote, and they settled in growing and promising Atlanta, GA. In 1954, Hilma became a young widow with 3 children to care for, which she did admirably, being sole breadwinner and home maker. She worked at various secretarial and bookkeeper positions, eventually rising to Executive Secretary to the Finance Officer of Lithonia Lighting. She earned her real estate license, and went on to become a broker with Wood Realty of Decatur. She was a member of the American Business Women’s Association. After retirement, she relocated to Perry, FL, where she joined the Woman’s Club of Perry and was a member of First Baptist Church of Perry. Hilma was predeceased by her parents, husband, two brothers, and sister. Survivors include her children and their families: Mike Nepote (Debbie) of Carrabelle, FL; Vicki Bolton (Philip) of Avondale Estates; Cecile N. Hance of Perry, FL; grandchildren and step-grandchildren Cadee Nepote, Crissy Bohling (Tucker), John-Michael Nepote, K.C. Bolton, Trina Bolton, Rob Hance (Glenda), Richy Hance (Laura), and Donnie Hance; great-grandchildren Morgan Nepote, Emily, Fisher, and Darci Bohling, Jessica and Brandon Hance, Shelbi and Allison Barrow. Other survivors include two special nieces Robie Stanley and Leanna Bankston, nephew Jerry Helton. A burial service will be held on Saturday at 10:00am at Resthaven Gardens of Memory in Decatur, GA. Memorial gifts may be made to Big Bend Hospice or First Baptist Church of Perry.
