Carolyn Hughes

Carolyn Ferrara Hughes Oct. 25, 1939-Oct. 12, 2010 Resident of Fremont Carolyn Hughes, born and raised in Modesto and long-time resident of Oakland, died peacefully at home after a two-year battle with lung cancer. Known for her spunk, can-do attitude, and sense of humor, she worked hard her entire life, starting before she was age 10 with taking care of her younger siblings, fixing dinner, and even taking care of her father's business books so her immigrant parents could hold down two and three jobs and run their store simultaneously. After college, she took the lead in starting and managing the family's new business venture, Ferrara's Delicatessen, Restaurant, and Catering Service, which operated in Modesto for 9 years. She married Robert Hughes, whom she had known since they were freshmen in high school, in 1967 and moved to Oakland where he was employed with Kaiser Health Plan. She subsequently worked in administrative capacities for a variety of large and medium sized companies, eventually retiring after 13 years as a legal secretary for a patent attorney. Throughout her life she brought a caring attitude towards everyone she encountered, be they extended family members, neighbors, or mere acquaintances with whom she struck up conversations on busses and in check-out lines. No matter the situation, she made people feel "at home" with her; truly a gift that far too few people have. She always was ready to assist and help anyone in need. Always ready with an upbeat pep talk, a smile, and a laugh, even while in excruciating pain from the many ailments she suffered through, and conquered, during most of her life. She touched countless lives; more than any of us will ever know. She is survived by her friend of 57 years and nearly 43 years of marriage - her soulmate forever - Robert Hughes; their two sons and daughters-in-law, Alan and Karen of Santa Rosa and Chris and Sharon of Fremont; two grandchildren, Lauren and Jared of Fremont; former daughter-in-law Sylvia Butcher Hughes of St. Helena; and brother Jim Ferrara of Modesto. Per her wishes, she has been cremated and there will be no immediate funeral services. The family plans to hold a celebration of her life at a later date, still to be determined. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to your favorite charity. Fremont Chapel of the Roses (510) 797-1900