Anna Gae Mitchell Hughes

Anna Gae Mitchell Hughes, age 100, of Rockingham, Virginia, passed away Sunday, October 19, 2025, at Bellaire at Stone Port, Harrisonburg. Born October 29, 1924, in Sugar Grove, West Virginia, she was the daughter of the late Hugh and Gertrude (Puffenbarger) Mitchell. She was also preceded in death by her husband, John Megeath Hughes, Sr. on November 17, 1970; a daughter, Kimberly Gae Hughes on April 27, 2010; an infant son (1948), and an infant daughter (1963). Additionally, she lost her siblings and their spouses: Helon Pittsenbarger (husband Everette), Margene Moore (husband Bill), Billie Bowling (husband Jim), Jackie Trisler (husband Bill), Buddy Mitchell (wife Ellen) and brother-in-law, Allen Wade. Mrs. Hughes was raised in Sugar Grove, WV on the family farm. She graduated salutatorian from Franklin High School. Upon graduation, she relocated to Arlington, Virginia to join her sister in support of the war effort in 1942, working for Selective Service. Through a friend at work, she went on a blind date which introduced her to her future husband. Anna Gae and John married February 8, 1947. The growing family started out in Alexandria, VA. In June 1957, everyone moved to Woodbridge, VA. Here John and Gae raised their growing family. Upon the death of Gae's husband, she was employed as an administrative assistant/secretary with Prince William County Public Schools until retirement. In 1988, Gae and Cynthia moved to Gainesville, VA to live the "country" life. Finally, after Cynthia's retirement, she and Cynthia made their final move to Harrisonburg, VA. Anna Gae liked nothing better than getting together with all her siblings as often as possible. There were family reunions, visits back to the home place, birthday parties and trips to the beach. These get togethers entailed much story telling of days gone by, continuous card games and lots of good food. The six sisters could all be talking at once and hearing every word that was said, often finishing each other's sentences. There was never a dull moment. Much love was shared. Surviving are a daughter, Cynthia A. Hughes of Rockingham; two sons, John M. Hughes of Lake Anna, and Jeffrey A. Hughes and wife, Sharon of Manassas; a sister, Peggy Wade; a brother, Tom Mitchell, and many nieces and nephews. Special thanks are extended to the staff at Bellaire at Stone Port's Memory Care. Mom was a resident since 2018. Their caring attitude and the attention they showed to Anna Gae enhanced her quality of life. Special thanks goes to Kim, Alisha and Teyha for their wonderful help, especially during mom's last days. Additional thanks is given to the staff of Gentiva Hospice. Thank you Niven, Pastor Larry and the whole Gentiva staff who helped keep mom comfortable. You helped the family immensely. A funeral service will be conducted at 11 a.m. Thursday, October 30, 2025, at St. Jacob's Spaders Lutheran Church, 3555 Spaders Church Rd, Mt. Crawford with Pastor Don Hawks officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will take place at Arlington National Cemetery at a date yet to be determined. Memorial contributions may be made to The American Cancer Society, the St. Jacob's Building Fund (mailed to the address above, Attention: Tammy Craun) or a charity of your choice.