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1968
2013
Miles William Hughes
Miles William Hughes, 44, known for his singular wit, passion for life and love of his family, passed away suddenly in the arms of his lifelong love, Leigh Ann Hayward Hughes, in Oak Park, Illinois on Sunday morning, March 17th, 2013.
Miles met Leigh Ann while in Raa Middle School in Tallahassee, Florida, forming a strong friendship that blossomed into love, marriage and two adored children, Ragan 16, and Reece 10.
He was born on June 20, 1968 in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, to William and Jane Hughes, joining his sisters, Cindy and Sallie. They moved to Tallahassee in 1977, where Miles grew up in the extended family First Presbyterian Church. Miles graduated from Lincoln High School in 1986 before attending the University of Florida, where he received a Bachelor's degree in political science with a minor in history.
Miles married Leigh Ann on May 16, 1992, in Tallahassee. He attended Florida State University College of Law, where he served on the law review and earned a JD in 1997. He was honored to clerk for Justice Ben Overton of the Florida Supreme Court. At the time of his passing, he was an Income Partner for the McDermott, Will & Emery law firm in Chicago.
Miles was an avid tennis player and a lover of music. He was fascinated by the vast power of the cosmos. His compassion for humanity showed in his demeanor and his politics. His commitment to his family was apparent to all who knew him, and he will be greatly missed by his community. Little League baseball, trips to the planetarium and watching his children on stage in Oak Park filled his life. He loved and mentored his nephew, Domenic Casenelli, 23, with whom he shared his passion for heavy metal music. He cherished his in-laws, Dot, Tom, Blake, and Jan Hayward, and their girls, even before he loved them as family.
He was preceded in death by his father, William Hughes, who passed away on March 11, 1994, and his grandmother, Pearl Ragan Elrod, who passed February 2, 1990.
Miles is survived by his best friend and wife of 20 years, Leigh Ann, and their beloved children; his mother; his sisters; his nephew; his father- and mother-in-law; his brother- and sister-in-law; his nieces--Hannah, 22, Camille, 17, and Lydia, 13; and extended family and friends in Tallahassee, Chicago, and other locations.
After a private commitment service, a reception will be held at Culley's MeadowWood Funeral Home, 700 Timberlane Rd., Tallahassee, 2-5 pm Saturday, March 23.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in honor of Miles may be made to Sarah's Inn, www.sarahsinn.org.
Miles appreciated the thoughts of astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson: "The good thing about science is that it's true whether or not you believe in it."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by anonymous.
Dear Leigh Ann, I can't help but think of you and Miles at this time. You know one of the last words my mom said before she died was, "I have to call my niece." Her heart was with you and your mom at your time of such profound grief. She loved you so much. I miss her every day. I know you know that feeling.
Terri Baker
Family
March 13, 2019
We are all so very sad to hear you have lost your wonderful young man. Our parents were friends with Bill and Jane many years ago in Mt. Pleasant. Please know you are all in our thoughts and prayers.
The Hobson Family
April 24, 2013
Miles was our son, Greg's, first roommate at the University of Florida when they started college and they were good friends.. Greg died in 1996 and now to hear that Miles has just died is overwhelming. I am in a book club in Tallahassee with Dot Hayward, Miles' mother-in-law, and didn't realize the connection until now. We were so sorry to hear of Miles'death. You and your family are and will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers.
Sharon McElrath
Sharon McElrath
April 10, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss. Miles as a person and tennis player was great. As one of his tennis coaches at Killearn Country Club, he had endless energy and personality. He will be missed by all.
Pete Eckhardt
April 9, 2013
Dear Leigh Ann, Ragan and Reese, We are really very shocked and saddened by sudden death of Miles. Our prayers are with you. May the Devine Providence give you the strength during this very sad moment in your lives. God Bless you all.
Patrick Fernandes
DESPLAINES, Illinois.
March 29, 2013
Leigh Ann, Ragan, and Reese my deepest sympathies on the loss of Miles. In the tennis community, we remember him fondly as a very kind and caring person. As one of my first students, he holds a very special place in my heart. Attached is a picture of Miles playing as a youth. It is wonderful to know that he was so beloved and has such a wonderful family. May god bless you all.
Tom Walker
March 25, 2013
Tom Walker
March 25, 2013
Dear Leigh Ann, Ragan and Reece,
We are all so saddened to hear about Miles passing. He was such a kind, easy going, genuine and fun man. I will never forget one time when he came over to pick up Ragan. Jayme was a newborn, and we had been patiently awaiting her first, genuine, newborn smile. We assumed that one of us would receive the smile, but no. Miles was talking to her as I held her, and she smiled right at him! I knew she was a good judge of character right then.
You are all in our thoughts and prayers, and we hope you find the strength you need in each other and your family.
All our love,
Brad, Katy, Andrea and Jayme Salutes
Katy Salutes
March 24, 2013
Dear Leigh Ann, Ragan, and Reese,
We are shocked and deeply saddened hearing the news about Miles. Our thoughts and prayers of comfort fill our hearts for you all.
Love,
Bruce, Kathi, and Nathan McLaughlin
March 24, 2013
I've remembered all of you in my prayers many times yesterday and today. Miles was such a special man and cousin - always upbeat, very funny, and always made everyone feel comfortable and welcome. I'm so sad for everyone, and love all of you - Freddie
Freddie Smith
March 23, 2013
I met Miles in our first year of law school. It was pure happenstance (or was it?) that we sat near each other in several of those first year classes. I enjoyed Miles' sense of humor, and I benefitted from his intelligence. Miles spent a lot of time trying to convince me and other people that he wasn't very smart. But his plan was eventually foiled: he graduated from law school magna cum laude and was on law review. I knew how smart Miles was. We studied together with another great friend, Jim Boatman. The three of us grew very close during those three years; we even had our post-graduation party together. Miles and Leigh Ann, Jim and Joy Boatman, and me and my wife Beth enjoyed many dinners together. He and Leigh Ann danced at my wedding. Leigh Ann, Ragan, Reece, I am so sorry for the loss of your husband and father. He was my friend, and I will miss him terribly.
Frank
All our love,
Frank and Beth Allman
March 23, 2013
Dear Leigh Ann,
I am terribly saddened to learn about the passing of Miles. My heart breaks for you, Reece and Ragan. I often heard from your parents and Blake how you were doing. I'd see in their faces how happy they were for you and the beautiful family you two created.
Although it's been many years since I've seen you, I often think of you and recall happy memories from our childhood.
Like others, please know that I will keep you and your entire family in my thoughts and prayers.
Feel free to reach me via the link below.
Blessings and hugs,
Kathy (Thomas) Keiffer
LHS - 82
(Killearn)
March 23, 2013
Dearest Friends,
My heart goes out to you. I always think of the Hughes family as my extended family. There are such fond memories of the holidays we would spend together in Mt. Pleasant. So much time has passed and Miles grew into such a wonderful man with his own fabulous family. He will be missed greatly and I pray for you all with love.
Debbie Thomas
March 23, 2013
dot,tom,leigh ann and family, i was so sad to see this obituary. i knew miles years and years ago when he was on our son's baseball team. again, we are so sorry to hear about this. we know leigh ann and all the family is devastated. we will hope and pray for better days for your family. may God bless you all in the coming days.
ann & mike white
March 23, 2013
March 22, 2013
When I met Miles he was only 5 or 6 years old. His older sister Cindy and I were friends living in Mt. Pleasant, MI where his father Bill taught at Central Michigan University. Miles was the most stunning little boy - dark hair and BIG brown eyes. Miles - may the good Lord bring you, and those left behind, peace. God Bless. Sara Colness Harrell and Family
Sara Colness Harrell
March 22, 2013
We will be with you all in prayer in Tallahassee tomorrow family. We love you all and we are deeply saddened by this tragic loss. Miles was a wonderful man in every way there was to be.
Lida and Joe Witherspoon
March 22, 2013
March 22, 2013
March 22, 2013
March 22, 2013
March 22, 2013
March 22, 2013
The news about Miles makes me so sad and my heart aches for your family. I remember when he was born, and playing with him along with Cindy and Sallie. I felt like he was my little brother too. A wonderful man!
Cindy Yantis
March 22, 2013
March 22, 2013
March 22, 2013
Leigh Ann, it has been many years since I last saw you and your family. I am so sad to learn of Miles passing. May the love of those around you help provide some comfort.
Karen Ostendorp Hardin
March 22, 2013
Leigh Ann
I remember all of us playing tennis together in High School. We had so much fun. I am so sorry for you and the kids. I'll be praying for you.
Brian Schumacher
March 22, 2013
I knew Miles and as a child because we both attended the same middle and high school, but only became his "friend " through social media in recent years. Miles was funny, smart, and unashamed of his beliefs. The love he demonstrated for his wife Leigh Ann and his children were paramount. I'm grateful for his friendship and already miss him.
Leigh Ann, I can't stop thinking about you and your children and what you must be going through.
Love, your old classmate
Jenny Moran Holloway
Jennifer Holloway
March 22, 2013
We will always remember the fun we had in Europe the summer of 1985! And the fun we had on Facebook. Your sweet family is in our prayers.
Gail and Rusty Alexander
March 21, 2013
The Hughes Family: I am so sorry for the loss of your son,husband and father. Jane, I do know how you feel because I also lost my son Steve at the age of 44 in 2005. The hurt will remain for a long time, but you must remember all the good times and the love you all shared.
Gladys Kane
March 21, 2013
I only knew Miles when he was a little boy, but I know what a loving family he grew up in and I'm certain he was an amazing man, husband, and father. My condolences to his family, to Cindy, Sally, and to Mrs. Jane Hughes, who raised such wonderful children.
March 21, 2013
I was very fortunate to have known Miles, and as most poeple would say, better off for it. His wit, intelligence and charisma were his calling card, and I'll always carry his spirit with me.
Steve Oliver
March 21, 2013
Leigh Ann,
I'm so sorry for your loss and not sure at all what to say. Miles was always friendly and outgoing in every way. Please know our thoughts are with you and your family.
Laura and Dez, Mason's parents
March 21, 2013
I was once told by a friend's father that if in one's lifetime, you could find at least one friend that could be trusted with your life that you were incredibly lucky.
Miles was that and much more to me. What began out of an indirect connection, our friendship led to many years of some of the fondest memories I possess.
Miles always had a unique approach to life and really put his heart into those he touched. He gave generously without asking for anything in return. I always knew that any time spent with him would be memorable; strange and unusual circumstances always ensued.
Times together always seemed like we went back in time to a day where life was more carefree. Some people let go of their playful side as they get older, holding on to more rigid and predictable outcomes, however, Miles embraced it and shared it with anyone around him. A laugh at his expense was not uncommon. Fun was something he was very good at having. Miles was great at redirecting life's purpose...enjoying life to the fullest.
Normally we do not think about death. We would rather think about life. Why reflect on death? When you start preparing for death you soon realize that you must look into your life now...
and come to face the truth of yourself. Death is like a mirror in which the true meaning of life is reflected ~ unknown
I believe that Miles understood that very well. It reveals itself in the breadcrumbs of his life. They lead to wonderful stories for all who knew him to embrace as well as the legacy which he leaves behind.
To a friend who halved my sorrows and doubled my joys, you are and will be missed...
Rey Barrera
March 21, 2013
Remembering your great love story today and always.
CATHIE Leland
March 21, 2013
He was my living doll. A bundle of joy and exuburence and endless energy that came bounding into my life when I was eight. He was absolutely perfect and I couldn't take my eyes off him! He grew in to an amazing man, kind, compassionate and loving. He was more than I could have ever asked for. I love you my baby brother. Go with God my sweet boy.
March 21, 2013
Please accept my condolences during this sad and difficult time.
Chris Casnelli
March 21, 2013
Leigh Ann, please know that we extend our heartfelt sympathy for your loss of Miles. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Lagran & Ben
March 21, 2013
Leigh Ann, Ragan, and Reece-- We're stunned and so saddened. Miles was one of our favorite persons in life--we have so many memories of good times with him. We love you and we're so sorry for your loss.
Craig, Jessica, and JD Varn
March 21, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Leslie Gresham
March 21, 2013
Dear LeighAnn, Jane and all of your family --Our prayers and thoughts are with all of you at this time. May God give you the strength you need -- Love Susan and Dave Raker
March 21, 2013
Dear Leigh Ann and family,
The messages shared here illuminates the joy Miles brought to so many lives. As new community members of Oak Park, we had little time to get to know Miles. Fortunately, Reece and Glen met and became friends. We are here to help you in anyway we can.
With the support of family and friends, may your hearts heal and rejoice with good sweet memories of Miles.
Blessings,
Renee Cobb and Family
C. Renee Cobb
March 21, 2013
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Essie Leland
March 21, 2013
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Sandy Pleas
March 21, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Gladys Pleas
March 21, 2013
I don't know Miles and Leigh Ann, but I remember his parents from a time I worked at First Presbyterian Church in Tallahassee , and Leigh Ann's mother Dot is a valued friend. I also know the agony of losing a beloved son. To each of you, know that I grieve with and for you.
Libby Hall Woodward
Tallahassee FL
March 21, 2013
We at Invesco have worked with Miles for many years. In addition to his excellent legal mind, he was funny, thoughtful and generous. He will be missed. Our sincerest condolences to all of his family at this time.
Elizabeth Nelson
March 21, 2013
I am without words - truly one of the most interesting men I have ever known. Miles - you are missed.
Terri Jay
March 21, 2013
Dear Leigh Ann,
I was deeply saddened to hear that Miles had passed away. His sense of humor and intelligence was wonderful. He could always make me laugh and that was a true gift! I am praying for you and your family, that you all find comfort and peace.
Suzie Benda-Cooper
March 21, 2013
Leigh Ann, Ragan and Reece, We are so sad to hear of Miles passing. We have so many found memories of all of you. Riley just told me about this and I am still in shock. Please know that you are surrounded by so much love at this difficult time. Love, Laura, Matt, Riley, Taylor & Jack Glenn
March 21, 2013
This is a great loss to the world. So sad for Miles's family.
Nancy Wallace
March 21, 2013
I am very sorry for your loss. Worked with Miles on a couple of deals and had very high regard for him. My prayers are with you.
Tom Califano
March 20, 2013
Dear Leigh Anne
Ralph and I are so sorry for your loss. You, Ragan and Reece are in our prayers. The Gentile Family
March 20, 2013
Leigh Ann and family,
I am so shocked and saddened to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers will be with you in the coming days and months ahead.
Donna Wilbur
March 20, 2013
Miles was one of the good guys and always made me laugh. He will be missed by many.
Daphne Gilbert
March 20, 2013
Leigh Ann,
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this diffcult hour. May the Lord grant you peace and strength in the days ahead.
Tom Nathan
March 20, 2013
Leigh Ann, We are so very sorry for your loss. Our deepest condolences to you, Ragan and Reece. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Raghav remembers him fondly for his time on T-Ball.
The Opal Family (Ankur, Puneet, Raghav & Shiv)
March 20, 2013
The prayers of the Carter family are with you. I was trying to remember how many chocolate chip cookies Miles ate at my house during high school with Earl...so many....so many memories...good ones...hold to those and know we are thinking of you in this time.
Donna & Joe Carter
March 20, 2013
We all feel such a loss for you Leigh Ann. It certainly makes everyone rethink what's really important in life. Though distance and age separate us, we are here for you if you need us for anything. We love you and pray for you and the children.
Andrea Pulling
March 20, 2013
We are so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers at this incredibly difficult time.
Patti Meadors and family
Julie Griffin
March 20, 2013
I, along with Armon and Aaron were very sad to hear about the passing of your husband. Armon and Reece are good friends, so we wanted Reece, as well as you and Ragan to know that we are so sorry about your loss. You guys our in our thoughts, and our prayers. We will say a special prayer for the entire family, asking God to be with you through this difficult time. May he bless you now, and always.
Samantha, Armon, and Aaron Hilliard-Ollie
March 20, 2013
To the Hughes Family,
My deepest sympathies. I have been working with Miles on a matter over the last four months. Along with his valuable counsel, he was always a reasonable voice. We at UMB will miss him terribly.
Lorna Gleason
Lorna Gleason
March 20, 2013
Leigh Ann,
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your husband. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Kelley Smith
March 20, 2013
Our deepest condolences during this time of grief. You and your family are in our prayers.
#10 Reggie & his Mom Regina
Regina Fobbs
March 20, 2013
Our deepest sympathies are offered. May you find comfort in your remembering him. May the "God who give peace," help you all through this difficult time.
Daniels Family
March 20, 2013
So sorry for your loss. You'll be in our thoughts.
Lise DeSousa Bailey
March 20, 2013
Dear Jane, Dot, and all of your precious family . . . I am holding you in my heart and join with so many who love and care about you very deeply. We are here with you and for you - day or night. Love you - Bonnie
Dot . . . we sang "Morning light, help us find, peace of mind this day . . ." for you and your family last night. <3
March 20, 2013
I am so sorry for you Leigh Ann. You spoke so warmly of Miles. I know he was a wonderful husband and father to you and your beautiful children. I will pray for you during this most difficult time in your families life.
Jenna Wellner
March 20, 2013
Our family's condolences to the Hughes family in the loss of your loved one. It is evident Miles touched the lives of many and will be missed deeply. May you draw strength in knowing that God is a source of all comfort and is near to all the mourning ones.
Lynn
March 19, 2013
Dear Leigh Ann, sending you many thoughts with deepest sympathy to you and your family during this difficult time. May your cherished memories of Miles always sustain you and give you strength.
Jerry, Barb, and Dana Edwards
March 19, 2013
Leigh Ann,
My thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family.
Derek Vinti
March 19, 2013
I remember you both from High School.. such a sad thing to lose someone so early in life. I am so sorry for you and your family. Prayers are with you.
joscelyn Pelham Capece
March 19, 2013
Leigh Ann, our prayers to you and your children for God's peace and strength. With sincere sympathy, Gene and Jo Shatlock
March 19, 2013
Like so many, we knew Miles was completely in love with his wife and his children. But that's not all. He also broke the suburban Dad mold – a free thinker, always willing to tell you what was going on inside that very interesting mind of his. We are devastated by your loss and send you our love and compassion.
Sherry and Paul Carbery
March 19, 2013
I am so sorry and wish I had words to give comfort, but know none exist. May The Lord, Jesus Christ, hold you and give you peace. I will be lifting your family up in prayer and sending my heartfelt sympathy.
Beth Boozer Hopkins
March 19, 2013
Jeffrey Gehrke
March 19, 2013
Leigh Ann--
I am so sorry to hear of this tragedy. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
With Love--Kevin, Kathleen and Children
Kevin Kennedy
March 19, 2013
Praying for your family in such a difficult time. For peace, understanding and love that crosses all our human boundaries. Gentle days, Laura Schunk
March 19, 2013
I am so sorry of the passing of Miles. A life cut way too short. May you all find comfort in all the wonderful memories you all hold near to your hearts.
Lisa Graganella
March 19, 2013
Leigh Ann and Family - Our deepest sympathies during this difficult time. We're keeping you, Ragan and Reece close to our hearts. Wishing you strength.
-Chip and Meg Potter
Chip Potter
March 19, 2013
I knew Miles in law school and also at the Florida Supreme Court. My sincere condolences on your loss. As many others have said, he was a caring man with a curious mind and a quick wit.
Peace to all his loved ones.
Betsy Daley
March 19, 2013
Leigh Ann,
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers! Wishing you God's peace during such a difficult time.
Cindy Davis Sullivan
March 19, 2013
Praying for comfort & the ability to make sense of life in Miles' absence. We love you, LA, Ragan & Reese.
KeriAynn and Kyla Strickler
March 19, 2013
Though me & my family have only been here for a school year & a half, we still feel the sadness of a loved one gone on & we send our deepest sympathies to the family. Lynn Hill (Mom) & Shalyn Dixon (daughter).May the Lord comfort you all in this difficult time.
Lynn Hill
March 19, 2013
Our prayers are with you, Leigh Ann and your family, during this sad unexpected loss in your life. We, along with Keith, Brian, and Michele remember you and Miles very well during your time in high school and college.
Ray and Judy Alexander
March 19, 2013
Oh, Miles how you made me laugh when we were in school. May God bless your family and children with strength, peace and a comfort knowing you are in a wonderful place. God's Speed Miles. You will be missed.
Laurie Clemens Marks
March 19, 2013
Leigh Ann, I am so sad to hear of your incredible loss. Please know that I will keep you and your children in my prayers.
Jennifer Boutwell Patty
March 19, 2013
I knew and admired your mom while we were sorority sisters at FSU. I am so sorry for your loss. You are all in my prayers.
Greta Heinz Brooks
March 19, 2013
Leigh Ann, We only just meet this past fall when our sons played fall ball together. But the warmth and friendliness you and Miles exhibited made it feel like I've known you for years. With my deepest sympathy...
Wendy Nieslawski
March 19, 2013
I am so sorry, Leigh Ann, for the loss of your husband and to your children, for the loss of their father. My thoughts and prayers are with you. God bless you all at this difficult time. In deepest sympathy, Tara Bernstein
Tara Bernstein
March 19, 2013
Leigh Ann, Ragan, and Reese - words cannot express the hurt in our hearts for all of you. Miles was a great guy who easily puttig a smile on our face every time we thought of him. Our prayers are with you, Love the Tlusty Family, Tim, Holly, Tyler, and Dylan
March 19, 2013
Leigh Ann, Ragan and Reece know that you are in our
thoughts and prayers as you
move forward in your life with the sudden death of your
dearly beloved husband-Miles and father. Our hearts are very saddened. Know that God, your faith, family and friends are with you.
Ron and Martha Stubbs
March 19, 2013
Leigh Ann, Ragan and Reece, we are so deeply saddened by your sudden loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Lynda, the board, and staff of West Suburban PADS.
Lynda Schueler
March 19, 2013
To Miles' family, Jane Hughes Family and Tom Hayward Family...Both Ken, Kevin and I are in morning and send our sincere sympathy at the loss of Miles. He played with my boys in the neighborhood in their young years and was such a part of our family. We loved him and he has remained in our hearts even though we have been far apart for years. May God give you strength and peace. Love, Shirley Collins, Ken and Kevin Collins and families
Shirley Collins-Hatfield- Hart
March 19, 2013
Miles was a terrific lawyer who was deeply valued by his clients. He was as smart as a whip, and when you needed him, he responded. I will always be grateful to him for his work on behalf of Wells Fargo. My condolences to his family. I know his love can never be replaced. It will be hard for us to replace his brilliance, sensitivity and charm.
Ginny Housum
March 19, 2013
I am a friend of Jane Hughes and my prayers are with all of the family...Ann S. Lumsden
Ann Lumsden
March 19, 2013
I'm so terribly sorry for your loss. i worked on a few engagements with Miles. He was professional, responsive, energetic, funny and smart. I'm so saddened by this news. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
amy hayman
March 19, 2013
Leigh Ann, Reece, Ragan and family, the Castro family is sending you prayers and thoughts of love at this difficult time. May God bless you and give you strength. Love you, Maria, Marty, Savannah & MJ Castro
Maria Castro
March 19, 2013
Leigh Ann and family- so sorry to hear this! Thoughts and prayers are with you! Trish Hamrick and family
March 19, 2013
Dear Leigh Ann, you have our deepest sympathy. So sorry for your loss.
-Bruce & Janice Clark
March 19, 2013
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