Evelyn A. Hughes

Evelyn Hughes, age 89, of Lakeland, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2025. Born in Bartow, Florida, on September 29, 1935, Evelyn dedicated her life to education, leadership, faith, and service to her community.

A proud graduate of Bartow High School, Class of 1953, Evelyn earned her Master of Arts degree in Guidance Education from the University of Florida. Her passion for education and student development led to a remarkable and impactful career.

She served in several key roles throughout her career, including:

• Director of Finance, Polk County School Board (1959–1964)

• Dean of Students, Pinecrest High School (1966–1972)

• Dean of Students, Plant City High School (1972–1979)

• Assistant Principal, East Bay High School (1979–1983)

• Principal, Armwood High School (1984–1995)

Evelyn was a respected voice in educational leadership. She co-authored the article “Senior Surveys – A Valuable Tool for Administrators”, published in the NASSP Bulletin in March 1989. Her excellence was recognized with numerous honors, including:

• State Administrator of the Year (1989–1990) by the Florida Association of Counseling and Development

• County Administrator of the Year (1988–1989) by the Hillsborough County Guidance Counselor’s Association

She also served her community through leadership roles with the Chamber of Commerce Education Committee, as Treasurer of the Hillsborough Association of

School Administrators (HASA), and through her work with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).

Evelyn was a dedicated member of Crystal Lake United Methodist Church in Lakeland, where her faith and fellowship were central to her life.

She was preceded in death by her beloved sons, Joe White and Stephen White, and her dear sister, Martha. Evelyn’s memory will be cherished by all who knew and loved her.

A Celebration of a Life Well Lived will be held on Saturday, August 2 at 2:00 PM at Crystal Lake United Methodist Church, 2001 N Crystal Lake Dr, Lakeland, FL 33801. The service will be officiated by Pastor David Toombs.

A second service will be held on Tuesday, August 5 at 11:00 AM at Hillsboro Memorial Funeral Home, 2323 W Brandon Blvd, Brandon, FL 33511.

Her family and friends take comfort in knowing that Evelyn is reunited with those she loved and missed so dearly.