Maudel Jones Hughey

Maudel Jones Hughey, 70, passed away surrounded by her loving family on the morning of Saturday, July 19, 2025, at Lakeland Regional Health.
Born on March 11, 1955, in Bartow, Florida, to Herbert and Mertice Jones, Maudel spent most of her life in Lakeland. She graduated from Bartow High School and received a BS from St. Leo College. During her senior year, Maudel worked at a local real estate office. It was through that job that she was introduced to Gary Hughey by a mutual business acquaintance. The connection was instant, and the two became inseparable. They were married on January 26, 1979, and shared 46 devoted years together. Their greatest joy was their daughter, Deanna, who remained Maudel's pride and joy throughout her life.
Maudel worked as an underwriter for State Farm Insurance for over 40 years, retiring in 2017. She was a member of Kathleen Baptist Church and a woman of quiet faith, generosity, and strength.
A gifted cook and baker, Maudel loved collecting recipes and menus, always eager to try something new in the kitchen. But above all, her deepest love was for her family. She was not only a devoted mother to Deanna, but a loving, maternal presence to many of Deanna's friends and classmates. Known for her kind heart and generous spirit, Maudel often stepped in to support and nurture children in need of care, offering them the love and guidance she so naturally gave.
Maudel is preceded in death by her siblings: brothers Jimmy, Billy, and Jerry Simpson, and sisters Sandy Norris and LaDonna Sayes.
She is survived by her loving husband, Gary; her beloved daughter, Deanna; her cherished fur-grandbabies, Ms. Kitty and Mr. Wilson; and many adoring nieces and nephews, all of whom she treasured deeply.
A memorial service to celebrate and honor Maudel's life will be held on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at Gentry-Morrison Funeral Home, Serenity Gardens Chapel. Visitation will take place from 2:00 to 3:00 PM, with the service immediately following at 3:00 PM.