OCALA, FL (352today.com) – He’s been a light leading the way in the community for decades.

Ocala City Councilman Jim Hilty Sr. was recognized with the Community Foundation Ocala/Marion County‘s Luminary Award, Estate Planning Council of Marion County, at the Inspire Gala, on March 8, 2025, for his leadership.

Hilty Sr. had been told he was a nominee for one of the Community Foundation’s awards but wasn’t certain for which one and wasn’t expecting to be a recipient. He was surprised when his name was called.

“Somebody probably had to do some digging to figure out some of the things that I’ve done with my clients philanthropically,” said Hilty Sr. “My history with what I’ve done for other groups was on my bio, so they had all of the information, working with the Boy Scouts and the other organizations within the community.”

|IT’S YOUR BUSINESS: The latest local economic news, industry trends, and insights into businesses shaping the future of Ocala & Marion County

However, Hilty Sr. seemed to check all the boxes based on his leadership qualities and his service, sitting on the board of several organizations. A United States Marine Corps and Vietnam War veteran, Hilty Sr. has been a financial advisor involved extensively in estate planning. Four charities in Ocala receive ongoing quarterly checks from a late client’s estate due to his efforts. He also played a significant role in securing substantial funds for Blessed Trinity’s endowment. Hilty Sr. serves on the boards of the Blessed Trinity Endowment, Salvation Army, and the Discovery Science Center. He previously chaired the Ocala Civic Theatre and Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership.

“They must have felt that I was leading the way for the different committees that I sit on,” said Hilty Sr. “There are several committees that I sit on for the city as well as other nonprofits in town. I enjoy what I’m doing. I’m fortunate to be retired and to be in a good financial position. I counseled clients for 30 years for raising money for their retirement. They always said, ‘you better have something to do in your retirement because money isn’t the answer.’ You have to have things to do, and volunteering is one of them.”

More news that matters to you…