NICEVILLE, FLORIDA - Patricia "Pat" Hemby, a founding broker of Carriage Hills Realty in Niceville, has died. She was 76.

Hemby passed away July 28 following a long battle with emphysema.

At a celebration of Hemby’s life, friends and family remembered her as a brilliant businesswoman, and for being loyal, feisty, courageous and strong.

She was also fondly remembered for her big heart, and her efforts to give back to the community.

Hemby founded the Fireworks Trust Fund in 1986, and soon thereafter, the Community Youth Trust. The Fireworks Trust Fund has contributed more than $60,000 for Niceville’s Fourth of July fireworks since 1998. The Youth Trust has contributed thousands of dollars to such organizations as the Children’s Advocacy Center, Children in Crisis, Sharing and Caring, and numerous scholarship funds.

"Pat was very passionate about our community," said Tricia Brunson, President and CEO of the Niceville Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce.

"She was very forward thinking. Pat didn’t just talk; she took action," Brunson said.

"Nothing was more important to Pat Hemby than children, families and community," said Dennis Gilson, an original member of the Fireworks Trust Fund Committee and local news reporter since 1979. "Pat made a real difference here. She won’t be forgotten."

Hemby is survived by her daughter Cozette (Cozy) Drake and husband Gary Drake, and her two grandchildren, Jordan Amber and Devin William. She was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, Bill Hemby, who died last November.