Harper Louise Hughes was born on December 29, 2024, at Baptist Medical Center South in Jacksonville, Florida. From the very beginning, Harper was loved deeply and cherished fully in all of the everyday moments that make a family’s world feel whole.
In June of 2026, Harper was diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma. She received pediatric cancer treatment from June through September at Wolfson's Children's Hospital and Nemours Children's Health. In the face of so much that was unfair and far too heavy for someone so small, Harper met each day with bravery and resilience that those who love her will never forget.
Harper’s joys were simple and bright: music that could soothe or delight, walks to the duck pond, afternoons at the park, books that invited wonder, and animals that drew her in - especially her dog, Bear. She also loved princesses; she was always finding magic wherever she could, and bringing it with her into the lives of those around her.
Harper passed away on September 10, 2026. She was just over 20 months old. She is survived by her mother (Carly Pelle Hughes), her father (Charles "Chase" Hughes), and her loving grandparents, aunt, and uncles. Though Harper’s time was heartbreakingly short, the love she gave and received was complete, constant, and enduring. She will be carried forward in memory, in music, in stories, and in the hearts of all who loved her deeply.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Legacy Lodge, 4801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207, on October 17, 2026, at 11:00 am, and the family would like to request that for Harper's service, everyone wear any shade of yellow (in honor of Harper's favorite color) or white (in honor of Harper's life).
