Nina Evelyn Bliss

The dictionary defines humanitarian as ""a person promoting human welfare and social reform"". There is no one in Bell County or the State of Texas that exemplifies the quality of humanitarian more than Nina Bliss of Little River, Texas. Because of her devotion for make her community a better place to live and her love for her fellow man; the world is a much better place because of Nina Bliss! Born December 11, 1923 in Heavener, OK, Nina grew up during the depression. In her early years she picked cotton before and after school, had homework and washed dishes after meals. She walked two miles to and from school each day to complete her education. Life was not easy, but Nina persevered. She grew up to be a beautiful young woman and met Dick Bliss in Taylor, Texas. They married September 24, 1950. They celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary just last month. Nina and Dick moved to Little River in 1962. From that time on, Nina worked tirelessly for the betterment of Little River- Academy and the people of their community. She participated in the forming of the Little River-Academy Improvement Association in March 1966. The next year she began having garage sales. The sales proceeds (or Nina Sales as the community known) went to purchasing property for the community center. Ground was broken for the community center in August, 1973. Garage sales were continued, to pay for the completion of the center. The center was complete in 1975 and was named the ""Bliss Hall Community Center"". The town and area communities continue to use this center for meetings, weddings, birthdays and elections. Nina raised money for school furniture through sales and donations. She also raised money for exercise equipment and new band uniforms. Nina was there to help needy families in the community. She helped care for many who could not do for themselves. She transported people to and from hospitals when needed. Through the years Nina hand many sales for the Fire Department of Little River-Academy. She also helped the Lions Club by having sales. She also raised money for the pitching machine for the Little League. Some of her other projects included Little River street signs, a piano for the community center, band boosters, and addition added to the community center, 4-H Club, the community lighted walking and hiking trail. Many times, Nina used her own money to help people in the community and no one knew the extent of her kindness. In 1994, Nina won the coveted Jefferson Award for Public Service. What many people do not know is that Nina was ill and battled cancer and heart problems during those years. Yet, she did not slow down or complain about her own illnesses. She was always ready and available to help her fellow man. Nina continued to be an active member of the Little River-Academy Improvement Association and continued to have garage sales to help schools, Fireman's Association and the community. Nina booked the dates for the ""Bliss Community Center"". She was the one who would open the center for the functions and was there to close the center after everyone left. She made sure that the center was well- maintained and ran smoothly. Nina did this until her health no longer allowed her to participate. The Community, Nina's family, and everyone who knew her is better off having known her. Nina passed away from this world on October 16, 2015 at 11:00 A.M. Nina was 91 years old at the time of her death. A celebration of her life will be held November 01, 2015 at the Bliss Hall Community Center. What a beautiful memory she has left for her community and family. If everyone behaved a little more like Nina, the world would be so much kinder for all of us. When one throws a light into darkness, how far will it shine? To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Nina Evelyn Bliss please visit our Sympathy Store.