BEAUMONT, Texas — Dr. Hervy Hiner has been a pillar in the Southeast Texas community. He served the community not only as a nephrologist, but as a businessman who owned Suga's located in downtown Beaumont for 16 years. Dr. Hiner was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer a month ago. His family will lay him to rest at the age of 69.
One of his favorite hobbies was collecting African art. His family says that he was the kind of person who enjoyed making ice cream for the Suga's restaurant in downtown Beaumont.
"He is quite, reserved, helpful, humble and loving," said Dr. Hiner's daughter Nikki Hiner.
As the Hiner family prepares to lay the patriarch, doctor, businessman and friend to rest, his three children and wife took a moment to gather at their home and reflect on his life and legacy.
"Dr. Hiner had been in practice in this area for 35 years," said his wife Rosalind Hall -Hiner. "He was the CEO and founder of Southeast Texas Nephrology Associates."
According to his wife, after he finished treating thousands of patients suffering from kidney disease, he found himself in downtown Beaumont at Suga's.
"It was suppose to originally be just ice-cream, but it was amazing with his love for jazz music his love for art," she said.
His youngest son Jordon says that it was his dad who inspired him to forge a similar path of his own.
"I said dad collects art, I have to collect art," said Jordon. "Him being an art collector is what made me want to be an artist."
His middle son Harrison says he will always remember conversations he had with his dad while riding in the car.
"I was like in 7th grade and he told me what ever you do as a profession just make sure you serve people," said Harrison.
His oldest daughter Nikki recounts the last month after her father was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
"We bought him to the emergency room Monday morning and he passed Monday," she said. "Our papa bear is going to be missed, but back to family we're stronger than ever and we will continue to be strong for him."
Mrs. Hiner says her husband was still seeing patients up until he was diagnosed, which is a true testament to his dedication to his patients and craft.
The community is invited to the memorial service tomorrow at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church at 2:00pm.
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This is a developing story. We will update with more if and when we receive more confirmed information.