Phyllis May Hughes

Phyllis May Hughes, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at the age of 83, surrounded by her loving family. A memorial service to celebrate Phyllis's life was held on Monday, January 12, 2026, at  the Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville, Missouri.  Following her wishes, Phyllis would suggest in lieu of flowers to spend time with your family - go out for a meal or enjoy an activity together.

Born on June 2, 1942, in Cass County, Missouri, to Dave Monroe and Rosa Mae (Malicoat) Knox, Phyllis lived a life rich in love, laughter, and cherished memories. She began her professional journey as a bus driver, where she became a favorite among the children she transported. Her kind heart and nurturing spirit led her to pursue a career in cosmetology later in life. With determination and resilience, she earned her GED and went on to obtain her cosmetologist license. Phyllis spent many joyful years as a beautician, creating beauty for others while mentoring her granddaughter and great-granddaughter to follow in her footsteps.

On August 24, 1959, Phyllis married the love of her life, Billy Hughes, in a ceremony at Rev. Joe Brewster's home. Together, they built a life filled with shared dreams and unwavering support until Bill's passing on October 4, 2025. Their love continues to inspire all who knew them. Phyllis found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved to golf, going to the casino, and bowling, famously breaking the jackpot at Bowling for Dollars, which allowed her to indulge in a beautiful diamond ring as a reward for her winnings. An avid player of Yahtzee and dominoes, she treasured those moments spent laughing and connecting with her grandchildren and family.

Phyllis's greatest joy came from being a grandmother. Her heart swelled with pride as she witnessed the accomplishments and activities of her beloved grandchildren. Her granddaughter beautifully articulated this profound connection, recalling how Phyllis's love encompassed every moment of her life. Phyllis was not just a grandmother; she was a confidante, a mentor, and an unwavering source of support to her daughters, Marla Tucker and Joy Turner, and their families. She may be reunited in heaven with the love of her life, but pieces of her heart were left here to forever remember and cherish her.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bill Hughes; and her siblings: Maurice, Cecil, Ralph, Margie, Harvey, Bill, Joyce, and Larry. She is survived by her cherished daughters: Joy (David) Turner of Creighton, MO; and Marla (Curtis) Tucker of Raymore, MO; her sister, Mary Miller; her grandchildren: Dawn (Brandon), Haley (Jonathan), Lance (Jim), Kelsey, Megan (Warren), Aaron (Ashley), and Sarah (Carey); her four great-grandchildren: Ryleigh (Josh), Ben, Reygan, and Charlee; and her one great-great-granddaughter, Leni; who brought boundless joy to her life.