'He was a mighty fine man'

MILTON — First in private then in public, he often held leadership positions serving customers, business people, Milton citizens and Santa Rosa County Creek Indian Tribe members. However, his most important role may have been "dad."

Llyod Hinote was a life long resident of Santa Rosa County and a long-time resident of Milton. He was born on January 22, 1938 in Alflora, just northeast of Milton. He served more than 15 years on the Milton City Council, representing Ward IV. Former city mayor Guy Thompson once praised him for being serious about his role to the city, always being quick to respond to a problem.

This month the Milton city council dedicated a boat launch in Hinote's memory. Councilwoman Pat Lunsford said he was a man who stood for what he believed in and didn’t mind speaking up when necessary.

“He was a mighty fine man,” she said. “His heart was dedicated to making Milton a better place. No one would have anything negative to say against him.”

Lunsford said Hinote worked for his entire city and not just his ward. As a councilman, he was known for making a daily appearance at city hall and maintaining a good relationship with the city’s employees.

During his service, council voted to build a new city hall, a new fire station, along with a new wastewater treatment facility and recreation facilities. He served as chairperson over the city’s parks and recreation committee.

Before his time on the city council, Hinote had a background in finance and business. For 24 years he served as a vice president for a bank. Following this, for 18 years, he ran his own private business and then for nearly 10 years was the executive director for the Pace Area Chamber of Commerce.

In addition to his work and his service to the city, Hinote also served on Rosa County Creek Indian Tribe Inc. as the vice chief. Dan Helms, who took over as vice chief when Hinote passed away, said he was a wealth of knowledge on Native American history and culture.

"If you would stand still long enough, he would teach you something about the heritage and culture of Native Americans," Helms said. "Lloyd’s memory and influence will continue to live in on in the hearts and minds of all whose lives he touched."

Despite his numerous accomplishments and interests, Hinote will always be remembered for his dedication to his family.

Hinote was married to Francis “Micki” Hinote, who preceded him in death. Together they had one daughter, Lisa Hinote, and one grandson, Skylar Jinright with whom he was close, according to Lisa.

Lisa said her father was the kind of father and grandfather any person would want to have.

“He was loved by us so much and will be missed dearly,” she said.

Hinote died Nov. 13, 2016 at the age of 78.