Nancy Hughes, 89, of Huntley, Illinois, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2025. Her family and friends witnessed her selflessness and unwavering kindness as she courageously battled cancer.
Born on January 11, 1936, in Columbus, Ohio, Nancy was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd Hughes, their son, Scott. She married Lloyd, her high school sweetheart, on December 27, 1959 and together they built a life full of love, laughter, and family. During Lloyd's service as a pilot in the U.S. Navy, they enjoyed traveling and even spent a memorable time living in Puerto Rico. Eventually, they settled in McHenry, Illinois, where they raised their three sons.
Nancy was a devoted wife, homemaker, mother, and grandmother. She had a true gift for hospitality, and her happiest moments were spent in the kitchen cooking, baking, and entertaining family and friends.
She is survived by her sons Steve (Ellen) and Todd (Mollie), her grandchildren Travis (Stephanie), Kevin (Brooke), Jacob (Nicole), Rachel (Josh), and Lydia, as well as her great-grandchildren Eve, Will Franklin, Caleb, Eli, Josiah, and Elisabeth. She was excited about her new great granddaughter expected in mid-May.
Nancy took great pride in seeing all three of her sons follow in their father’s footsteps to become airline pilots. She was endlessly supportive and the biggest cheerleader for her children and grandchildren in all their pursuits.
The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported Nancy during her illness, especially her wonderful neighbors and dear friends, Patty and Celene.
A private ceremony will be held in Ohio, where Nancy will be laid to rest alongside her husband and son.
Nancy loved flowers and hummingbirds — small, joyful reminders of the beauty all around us. She asked that whenever you see a hummingbird, take a moment to remember the beautiful things in life.
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For the past 13 years, we were blessed with Nancy as not only our next door neighbor but also as our dear and loved close friend. We laughed, giggled, cried and talked about every subject imaginable. She left a love mark on our hearts..and we hope we left one on her’s. We already miss her so much. Btw, her favorite subject was her precious family. May the kind Lord grant you comfort at this difficult time.
All who knew Nancy and met her knew she was a special person more like an angel on earth. Never judgmental, always loving always thinking of others rather than herself. We got to know her through my sister Ellen and brother-in-law Steve over these most recent years. Truly, the term salt of the Earth applies to Nancy. She will be missed, but never forgotten as a truly pure and wonderful human being.
My memories of Nancy are of her non stop smile and that cute little giggle. I’m off to make fresh hummingbird nectar and will think of her fondly. 🩵