Ruth Hughes

Ruth Hughes obituary

Ruth Hughes

Ruth Hughes Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Southern Mississippi Funeral Services on Aug. 5, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

Ruth Elizabeth Hughes , 84 , of Vancleave, MS passed away on Wednesday, July 30th, 2025 in Lucedale, at Sparrow Hills nursing facility.

Ruth Hughes is preceded in death by her loving & devoted husband of 66 years; Donald Hughes. She is also preceded in death by Byron Henson, L.C. Henson, Barney Henson, Ruth Henson, Dale Henson, Mary Nell Henson, and Melvin Henson,

Survivors include her children; Mark (Demaris) Hughes, and LeAnne (Michael) Vaughn. Her grandchildren; Nicholas (Brooke) Stuckey, Thomas (Lauren) Stuckey, Zachary Hughes, and Anthony (Amie). Great-grandchildren; Case, Cale, Wyatt, Weston Hughes, Kristal Stuckey, Sadie Stuckey, Evy Stuckey, Annaleigh Stuckey, Holden Stuckey, Owen Hester, Adalan Huddleston, Derek Mora, and Jared Mora. Along with numerous nieces and nephews who have fond memories of time spent with her.

A native of Tuscumbia, AL , Ruth was born on August 26, 1940 to Thomas Barney Henson and Ruth Irene Henson. Ruth earned her associates degree from community college and dedicated much of her professional life to helping others through her work at Singing River Mental Health. Her warmth and care extended beyond her career, as she was known for volunteering at the Sandhill Crane Bird Sanctuary. A woman of deep faith, she was one of Jehovah's Witnesses and lived her life in accordance with her spiritual beliefs. She also enjoyed spending time gardening, watching her blueberry trees ,plants and flowers grow with fulfillment.

Ruth Elizabeth Hughes was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother who wore many "hats." She was a homemaker, an excellent cook who opened her door to many, and always had an extra plate at the table for anyone who stopped by for a meal, and interesting conversation. If there was someone sick or in need, she was quick to take a meal to anyone in need. She was very much a people person, with an outgoing personality and never met a stranger. She loved traveling and never would miss an opportunity to do so. She planned many interesting trips with her husband, but also took advantage of traveling with other family members, and friends whenever an opportunity presented itself. Over her 84 years, She traveled to many interesting & beautiful places that she truly enjoyed, and loved sharing her experiences. She really shined when her grandchildren came along, and spent meaningful time with each one of them. As they will cherish, and always hold close those memories to their hearts and minds. Especially, one vacation to Monetsano Mountains. "Mammy" always cooked special meals, made yummy treats, or just took time out of her day just to make them feel and know they were special and loved.

The family would especially like to Thank all of the staff at Sparrow Hills for their love and support and care extended to Ruth and also the Gentiva Hospice Group who were so caring, supportive, and compassionate throughout this sorrowful time.

The family will receive friends on August 16, 2025 from 10:00am - 11:00am for visitation and Services will immediately follow at 11:00am at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah Witness, 6517 Jim Ramsay Rd, Vancleave, MS 39565.

Southern Mississippi Funeral Services is honored to serve the Hughes family. Please visit www.smfs.us to send your condolences and share your memories.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

People and places connected with Ruth
How to support Ruth's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Ruth Hughes's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Ruth Hughes's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?